Speed dating and self-image: Revisiting old data with New Eyes

Abstract

In this paper we perform a variety of analytical techniques on a speed dating dataset collected from 2002–2004. There have previously been papers published analyzing this dataset however we have focused on a previously unexplored area of the data; that of self-image and self-perception. We have evaluated whether the decision to meet again or not following a date can be predicted to any degree of certainty when focusing only on the self-ratings and partner ratings from the event. Further to this we have examined how the decisions received after the session can affect the stability of one’s self-image over time. We also performed some general exploratory analysis of this dataset in the area of self-image and self-perception; evaluating the importance of these attributes in the grand scheme of attaining a positive result from a 4 min date.