INTERACTIONS OF GRINDR USERS IN LIMA , PERU

Abstract

Grindr is a dating application that is oriented to non-heterosexual males and that works by geolocation. With a profile, users can interact, search for a partner, meet new people, create contact networks and, above all, arrange casual sexual encounters. The aim of this study was to describe the motivations, gratifications and interactions generated among Grindr users in Lima, Peru. The methodology was mixed: both a questionnaire with 110 participants and 8 in-depth interviews. The results describe negative consequences in the use of this application. These include discrimination and objectification among users, seen in users’ language and self- generated behaviors, as well as stereotypes of toxic masculinity that condemn the feminine and exalt the masculine.