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Online Dating

Online dating, in simplest terms, is the latest way to find a connection with a stranger via the Internet. The purpose is to connect two folks who were unlikely to have crossed paths before in the digital world, in hopes that it will progress to an actual face to face meet-up, and perhaps romance or some sort of intimate relationship.


Quick Stats

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80% of Americans who have used online dating agree that online dating is a good way to meet people.

62% agree that online dating allows people to find a better match, because they can get to know a lot more people.

31% agree that online dating keeps people from settling down, because they always have options for people to date.

Sites & Mobile Apps

Online dating has surged in popularity over the years. It went from a tool regarded by millennials as pretty much downright taboo to being the "what's in" or trendy way to find a connection.

The very first online dating site to hop on the scene is Match.com. It was created in 1995 and caters to millions of users.

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Another dating site that came along was Eharmony.com. It was founded in 1997 by a clinical psychologist with over 35+ years of experience. It serves over 20 million registered users worldwide.

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Mobile dating apps seem to be much more popular nowadays, especially amongst millennials. Some of the most well known apps are Tinder, OkCupid, and POF.

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Happn is a new mobile dating app that strictly revolves around connecting you with individuals you've crossed paths with.

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There are even social dating sites & apps that cater to specific demographics, religion, or interests.

BlackPeopleMeet and SoulSwipe cater to African-Americans.

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ChristianMingle is for the Christian folks.

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Believe it or not there is even a dating site for those who are seeking to have an affair. Ashley Madison is a dating website for those who are seeking more "discreet" relationships.

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Tinder and Bumble are also two very popular dating applications for your phone. They allow you to choose who you would like to connect with and if that person chooses you back, then you get the oppertunity to chat. I think that these two are probably the most popular this day and age.


Grindr is an application for gay men that allows users to see the other gay men in their area and message them. This application is used mostly for sexual relations in the gay community. Most people are not looking to go on dates or make relationships.

Pros of Online Dating

  • Over 40 million singles in the U.S have tried online dating.
  • One out of five relationships start online. Whether it’s on Social media, Facebook, Twitter, a mobile app, or traditional online dating site, there are a lot of success stories.
  • You can meet people outside of your geographic area and social circle with similar interests.
  • It’s efficient and available 24-hours a day.
  • Many sites provide matching tools and send you emails of suggested matches to make it easier for you to view potential dates.

Cons of Online Dating

  • It’s a crowded digital marketplace and can be an exhausting experience.
  • People lie about their age, weight, height, income, and marital status. Singles get frustrated after a few bad dates.
  • It can become addicting to some, who never meet offline or are looking for the next pretty face. Beware of the Digital Pen-Pal Syndrome.
  • It’s feels like a full-time job for many and you must be organized.
  • Many singles limit their search criteria to height, zip code, or income and can miss the opportunity to meet a compatible match.


Catfish TV Show

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catfish: To pretend to be someone you're not online by posting false information, such as someone else's pictures, on social media sites usually with the intention of getting someone to fall in love with you.

About the show

From the producers of the acclaimed documentary film, "Catfish," comes a new MTV series that brings together couples who've interacted solely through their LCD screens. Over the course of months or years - these romantics have become smitten - but what will happen when they meet in real life for the first time?

In each episode, with the guidance and help of the star of the "Catfish" movie, Nev Schulman, and his filmmaking pal, Max Joseph, a hopeful romantic partner will go on an emotional journey to discover the truth about their significant other. Has that object of affection been telling the truth? Will true love truly blossom? When that fateful knock on the front door finally comes - only one thing is certain - that these incredible voyages will be filled with mystery, uncertainty, forgiveness, joy, and sometimes, even shocking revelations.

Pros & Cons of Offline Dating

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  • Pro: You may have friends in common which will make you more comfortable.
  • Con: You’re not really sure of their relationship status.
  • Pro: You can determine if there’s chemistry in person sooner.
  • Con: You’re limited to your existing social circles or regular activities and will meet less people.
  • Pro: It’s pre-dating, without the pressure of wondering if you’re date’s profile is accurate.
  • Con: Singles may feel shy and not ask someone out for an official date.
  • Pro: You can easily date in groups, while developing new friendships with people with similar interests.
  • Con: You’re limiting yourself to a certain geographic area.
  • Pro: Dating sites have entered the events business giving you more choices to meet in person, without the pressure.
  • Con: You’re not really sure if someone is interested in you romantically at a group event.

References

Online Dating Statistics

Online Dating Vs Offline Dating

About Match

About eHarmony

About Catfish