How does one successfully date online? A simple analysis of online dating’s advantages can make a big difference. This is a good thing because psychological research does have such an analysis on online dating.
Online Dating Analysis
Finkel (2012) and his colleagues performed a thorough review of literature to examine various aspects of online dating. Their objective was to assess whether online dating is 1) fundamentally different from face–to-face dating, and 2) superior. The results of their review showed that online dating is indeed different from traditional dating in many ways. It offered some great features as well as potential problems. Finkel (2012) and his associates (2012) concluded that online dating is different in three areas.
1. Access
There are many benefits to online dating. It allows individuals to find more potential partners than they might otherwise be able to in their day-to-day lives. This is especially true for those who are interested in partners with a particular orientation, lifestyle, or living in isolated areas. The cons are that there are many options available. Online daters may get lost in the endless search for the perfect partner. This can lead to a lack of satisfaction and a dissatisfying relationship.
2. Matching
The advantage of Online dating sites is often offer personality testing and matching. This can help individuals find more compatible dating partners whereas the cons are that it can be hard to match people and the results may not be right for everyone. Also, people can present differently in person and change over time. Potential partners may be overlooked in the process of matching.
3. Communication
There are many benefits to online dating. You can get to know your potential date in several ways before actually meeting them in person. These computer-mediated communications allow for safe and efficient interaction without any time commitment. Such communication is ideal for busy professionals and safety-conscious people to “test” potential partner. You can use online dating to your advantage. There are both benefits and costs to online dating. How do you get the most from your online dating experience? Here are some suggestions.
Access:
While having a lot of options is great, it’s important to keep them in check. You don’t want to spend endless time online searching for someone you like. Limit your search to one location or a set of “must-haves”. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, instead of just “shopping”, speak to those on the shortlist. If you want to ensure that you find the right partner for your needs, you should have a basic idea of what you offer them. For more information, please see here, hier, and here.
Matching:
Although online tests are not able to identify your perfect match they can help narrow down your choices. These tests often identify potential partners who might make a bad relationship partner. Although you may need to try out a few potential partners before you can determine who is right for you, it is possible to avoid bad matches by matching. Trusting your subconscious feelings can make a huge difference in attraction. You can read more about this here and here.
Communication:
An online conversation is meant to establish an initial connection but not establish a foundation for a long-term relationship. Online communication should be focused on the initial conversation and setting up a date. In general, it is enough to exchange a few emails or have a few quick conversations. Long, introductory emails could be counter-productive or off-putting. Keep it for a date. If time is tight, you can meet for coffee. If safety is still a concern, you can meet in a public space. For more information about asking for a dating date, please see here.
Conclusion
Remember that online dating can only be used as a tool to meet people for future face-to face dating. This goal will keep you from becoming overwhelmed by the limitations and drawbacks of dating online. You can always move an interaction towards a date if you get lost. If you feel overwhelmed by the number of options available, try to find a way for you to narrow it down and find better matches. You can send a quick message to potential matches if you don’t know how to proceed. If you’re frustrated talking online, suggest that you meet in person. If you follow this process, you’ll find it easier to establish a relationship online and face-to–face.
