Are Dating Apps Ruining Dating? Or Is It Our Toxic Culture?

After years of marriage, Karen found herself facing a daunting reality after her divorce: re-entering the dating world as a middle-aged woman. Navigating the realm of modern dating apps felt like stepping into a foreign land with unfamiliar customs and languages. Gone were the days of meeting potential partners through friends or spontaneous encounters; now, the swipe of a finger determined her romantic prospects. Initially hesitant, Karen cautiously dipped her toes into the digital dating pool, hoping to find companionship and connection once again. However, the dating landscape had changed since Karen’s last single days. She encountered profiles with carefully curated snapshots and witty taglines, each vying for her attention in a sea of endless options. The pressure to present herself in the best possible light felt intense, as did the uncertainty of whether the men were genuinely seeking meaningful relationships.

Today many argue that dating apps are ruining dating. Are they right?

Sadly, Pew Research reported in 2020 that online dating has gotten harder in the last 10 years. Guess who it’s worse for? Women are much more likely than men to say dating is harder (55% vs. 39%). The biggest reason: more physical and emotional risk. Women are twice as likely to report it. (26% vs. 13%).