Creating a Future Relationship or Destroying My Self-Esteem: An Exploratory Study on Dating App Experiences and Well-Being

Abstract

Location-based dating apps such as Tinder are rising in popularity as more adults seek online outlets to garner romantic partnership. Engagement on such apps can lead to an increase or decrease in self-esteem, which this study explored. Thirty-one participants explained how creating their profile, swiping, matching, and messaging connected with their well-being. Results reveal female users have an overall more positive experience than males, who noted more examples of unrequited communication on Tinder. Gay males in particular shared stories of insecurities while viewing others’ photographs and contemplating communicating with others. The practical implications provide suggestions for Tinder to continue to alter its interface: 1) consider implementing measures to ensure accurate photographs are connected to users; 2) create a swiping experience that does not allow users to rapidly swipe right on all profiles, and 3) explore options with subdivisions of Tinder, such as Big and Tall or Curvy. Continual evaluation of user experiences on Tinder is necessary to monitor users’ mental and emotional well-being.