It has perhaps become common to meet new people on a dating app and even find a potential love interest.
While it seems pretty convenient and harmless, a recent study published in the Journal of Personal and Social Relationships has highlighted the dark side of online dating for people who are dealing with social anxiety or loneliness.
The study
The researchers at Ohio State University surveyed 269 college students who were made to fill an online questionnaire that quizzed them about their anxiety levels and the amount of time they spend on a dating app. The study concluded that participants who described themselves as socially anxious and lonely were more addicted to using dating apps.
Other findings
The survey indicated that people who had higher levels of social anxiety preferred to meet people on a dating app rather than in person. Also, such people preferred socialising with their matches on the app and not meeting in the real world.
The reason
The researchers suggest that some people with high levels of social anxiety prefer using dating apps rather than meeting people face-to-face because they might lack confidence and are unsure of their social skills. In turn, such apps help them in maintaining a social life online.
It impacts their work
The participants, who admitted they were both socially anxious and lonely, confessed that using a dating app took a toll on other aspects of their life like work or school.
The other scenarios
The students who described themselves as socially anxious but not alone and the ones whose feelings of loneliness were low to moderate did not display behaviours that indicated an addiction to a dating app.
The researcher’s advice
Though the study was done on a small scale, researchers suggest that people should be mindful of the usage of such apps. “Especially if you’re lonely, be careful in your choices. Regulate and be selective in your use,” shared Kathryn Coduto, the lead author of the study.
It’s the time for some self-reflection
While there is no harm in using dating apps, it is important to set some limits with its usage. If you are using an app to explore the dating world or meet interesting people, then go ahead with your plans. But in case you are glued to such apps and use these as a tool to boost your self-worth, you might not be heading in the right path.
