How Dating Apps Are Redefining Modern Relationships

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How Dating Apps Are Redefining Modern Relationships

.The days when one would meet someone at the local disco or community event, and enjoy a period of courtship before transitioning into a lifetime of wedded bliss may be a distant memory. In the 21st century, many singles turn to digital apps in the hope of finding a life partner or romantic interest.

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While this has opened up the doors of possibility, enabling people to reach a wider pool of potential suitors it may also have come at a cost. In this article, we will explore some of the ways love in the time of swiping has redefined the way we view modern relationships, for better or for worse.

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Greater Choice

In the past, people may have felt they had less choice when it came to defining the qualities and attributes of their ideal partner. This may have caused them to make decisions of the heart based on shared social circles, proximity and other factors that didn’t necessarily reflect a deeper compatibility or bond.

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The arrival of online dating allowed people to be more specific in their requirements, enabling them to forge connections based on shared interests and outlook on life. This selection process has been carried over to dating apps giving people greater choice to accept or reject potential matches based on their preferences, arguably helping them in their quest to find the right person.

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The Pickiness Pitfall

The wealth of choice presented with modern dating apps can also come with a potential downside. For many, the ability to swipe through countless profiles can lead to burnout but also a sense of fastidiousness and the desire for another to meet their exacting standards or imaginary ideals. It can also cause interactions over dating apps to carry little emotional investment or true desire to get to know another, as there is always the option to continue swiping.

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When this mindset is transferred over to a long-term relationship or a marriage, it can result in overly critical thinking towards one’s partner, along with other behaviors that can contribute to a relationship breaking down (or one party filing for divorce).

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Accessibility and Convenience

The modern world also comes with competing demands, whether it’s juggling work and social engagements, or balancing family life and personal time. This often leads to little or no time for personal matters such as finding a romantic partner. This is especially the case with people who live or work in remote areas, or who have little opportunity for meeting new people.

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Dating apps can offer a romantic life line for these individuals, allowing them to connect and form relationships with people they would not have the possibility to meet otherwise. In this sense, dating apps also offer access to dating for shy or introverted individuals who may feel uncomfortable striking up conversations with strangers in public places.

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As outlined, dating apps have both their benefits and drawbacks. While they offer greater convenience and potential suitability in dating, they can also contribute to a mindset of disposability where only superficial connections are formed and one eye is always looking ahead to the next match.