Whether you are a “slide in your DM’s” type of person or trying to find someone through an app, we all know that the dynamic of dating in today’s age is hard.
The reason why dating apps are popular for Gen Z is because it’s more difficult to expect a relationship out of certain apps because of the negative connotation behind them. For example, Tinder has a reputation for being the “hook-up” culture app.
“People immediately take things to bizarre sexual levels,” said Ellen Scott, writer for METRO. “We’ve been speaking via app for three minutes, don’t think you know me quite well enough to be narrating your deepest sexual desires.”
So, Tinder may go left for most, especially those who expect a relationship at the end of a conversation that does not last more than three minutes. But, not everyone Tinder’s situation goes left, some swipe right and possibly find the right match for them.
“I believe our story is rare because we are two unique individuals with two unique stories,” said Tia Baylor-Childrey, a Bradley alum. “It just so happened that our two parts as individuals came together and made a whole… I think it’s definitely possible to find love on tinder however, most people get on tinder to hook up without any real commitment… I think the best way to re-create this scenario is if two people just so happen to find each other and they just so happen to click and are willing to make a commitment.”
Although Tinder is a popular app, there are other dating apps for individuals to have the opportunity to chat with others. For example, Bumble is a great way to make new friends in your local area. However, sometimes those friendships may turn into a relationship, it’s a 50/50 chance.
As for other dating apps, individuals may be interested in Hinge, which is an app more for individuals who are looking for conversations. There is also another app known as Snack, which allows you to post short videos on your profile feed (think Snapchat and Tik Tok matched together.)
Now it comes to the question, do dating apps fail individuals or successfully help them?
Honestly, it depends on what you are looking for out of the conversation. Dating apps could be a good tool to use when looking for something casual or an interesting conversation. There is also a chance you could form a relationship.
I would suggest making your profile playful, but also state your intentions to avoid a lot of time wasted. However, if you think that’s too much work, then dating apps just might not be for you.
“When you are using dating apps just have fun don’t go into it thinking ‘I need to find the love of my life’ because most of the time you don’t find the love of your life, they find you,” said Baylor-Childrey. “So just have fun using the dating app to date different people, get to know different people, protect your heart and your body, make sure you’re safe, don’t ever meet someone in a secluded area, always meet someone in public, and be open to new experiences.”