Online dating has become increasingly popular among adults looking to find romantic partners, but it also presents new challenges for them when presenting themselves online. Unlike in person, people can easily misrepresent themselves through carefully curated profiles and images that do not reflect their true selves. This study investigates how online self-presentation affects adults' relational intentions.
Participants were asked about their online dating experience and behavior. They reported using various platforms such as Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and OkCupid. Most respondents said they tried different apps until finding one that suited their needs. Some even used multiple accounts simultaneously. Next, participants completed an online survey where they provided demographic data such as age, gender, education level, and relationship status.
The second section explored how participants presented themselves online. The majority indicated that they carefully selected pictures that made them look attractive, approachable, confident, or funny. Participants also described creating detailed profiles that included descriptions of their interests, hobbies, values, and goals. These actions suggested that participants wanted to portray themselves positively and accurately.
In the third part, participants revealed whether they had initiated contact with potential dates and what factors influenced their decision. Many cited physical appearance as a primary factor, followed by shared interests and compatibility.
Some reported feeling pressure to make a good first impression and hide certain aspects of themselves.
Some disclosed only favorable traits or lied about their job, income, or marital status.
Participants answered questions about their long-term intentions after meeting someone online. Many said they hoped for casual relationships but some desired serious commitment. Respondents who felt more comfortable with online communication tended to have higher relational expectations. This indicates that online self-presentation can influence relational intentions among adults looking for romantic partners.
This study suggests that online dating has transformed the way people present themselves in pursuit of intimacy. By controlling how they are perceived through selective sharing of information and images, individuals may create false impressions that skew others' perceptions of their personalities. It is crucial for adults to be mindful of these potential pitfalls when using digital platforms for relationship building.
How does online self-presentation affect adults' relational intentions?
Online self-presentation can influence adults' relational intentions by creating an impression of who they are as individuals on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. , which might lead them to form relationships with others based on that impression. This process could involve sharing personal information like photos, status updates, and posts about their interests to create a sense of identity and connection with other users.