ONLINE DATING
Understanding the Drawbacks of Online Dating
Is it necessary to sacrifice oneself for a love that is convenient and online?
You may be scrolling your way through dating apps in search of love. And since browsing profiles is not as time-consuming as the traditional way of meeting potential partners, you can view someone’s profile according to your desired standards and qualifications in just a few seconds.
Although some people meet their partners at social events or through friends, the advantages of online dating can save you time, energy, and surprisingly, money.
It is easy and convenient. You don’t have to dress up and go out, spend hours on a date with someone you may never see again, or worry about splitting the bill.
Considering the changes in modernization, online dating has also grown to become a viable option for many of us.
A survey conducted in 2013 found that 77% of participants considered it “very important” to have their smartphones with them at all times. With that, online dating became a convenient way for them to find a partner.
Whether it’s for a short-term or long-term relationship, they mostly rely on dating apps to find dates.
Additionally, the stigma surrounding it has slowly diminished over the last decade, and various dating services have been recognized as a convenient way to find a partner.
Even with the advantages of online dating, we can’t be blind to the potential risks that come with it. That being said, here are some drawbacks of online dating.
Loneliness
Of all the drawbacks you can think of, losing yourself because of loneliness may be the biggest risk.
Even though you are actively participating in swiping left and right on dating apps, the process itself can lead to loneliness and lower self-esteem.
Online dating can become addictive too.
Those experiencing loneliness are prone to bigger risks of dating app addiction, which means that swiping for love can worsen some symptoms of social anxiety and depression.
This crazy cycle can overwhelm you and your mental health in a matter of months
Unrealistic expectations
You never really know what you’re getting until you invest time and effort in meeting someone in person.
Some people may choose to swipe right or left based on attractiveness and what the other person can offer according to their profile. But you may end up disappointed if you find that you’re not compatible.
A few flirty texts should never be enough to get your hopes high and set unrealistic expectations.
Waste of time
Even if you hit it off with someone over chat or text, there is no assurance that your chemistry will translate well in real life. That is the reason why some people say online dating is a waste of time.
If you’re not lucky, you’ll have to try and try again.
As you go out on another date with someone you matched with, the same questions and repeated conversations tend to take place.
As it progresses, it can feel like you’re in an endless cycle of interviews for the same job.
So, online dating can be a waste of time if it gets repetitive.
There is no way to avoid reality — online dating is here to stay. While we all have our own opinions on whether dating apps work, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s easier for us to meet people.
