EXPLORING RELATIONSHIP EXPECTATIONS AND COMMUNICATION MOTIVES IN THE USE OF THE DATING APP TINDER

Abstract

Tinder is one of the most popular dating apps for heterosexual people/people seeking partners different from their own sex. In consequence, Tinder for some analysts the app has a reputation of being a hook-up app, albeit for other scholars, the app is simply a mediated venue for romantic acquaintanceship. In order to contribute on the discussion of the competing debate about Tinder and online dating in general, this study surveyed 278 participants regarding their Tinder usage, relationship expectations, and communication motives for using Tinder. Current Tinder users reported less intent to marry and more negative attitudes about marriage. Findings also revealed that men and women use the Tinder differently in terms of their communication motives. Specifically, men are more likely than women to use Tinder for the motives of affection, control, and escape. Older adults report using the Tinder significantly more for the motive of pleasure compared to college aged adults.