Do you believe in love at first swipe?
In a world where relationships can begin with just a swipe, online dating apps have redefined people’s relationships. From Tinder and Bumble to Hinge and Grindr, these platforms offer convenience, connection, and sometimes commitment. But behind the filtered profiles and witty bios lies a question that lingers: Are we here for love, seeking lust, or falling for a lie?
Cupid Goes Online
Despite the skepticism, numerous couples claim they found “their other half” through an online dating app. According to a report by Pew Research Center, 12% of people using the app have been married or committed to a relationship with someone they met through a dating site or app, while 23% say they have gone on a date with someone they met on the app. These numbers tell us that people are seeking genuine relationships through online apps. Apps like Hinge or Coffee Meets Bagel use algorithms based on shared interests, compatibility factors, and even psychological profiles to help users find long-term partners. Hinge even promotes itself as “the app designed to be deleted.”
“I know someone who met their lover through the bee app. They’re still going strong until now,” said Jovitz, 21, adding that she is delighted to see them together even now.
But love is not a one-hour fairy tale movie. Users seeking genuine relationships online must sift through profiles, endure ghosting, and filter out those with different goals to find someone they like to live with the rest of their lives.
LUST: Flings and Pings
Let’s be honest, many users aren’t swiping for soulmates. According to a 2020 Pew Research study, around 50% of dating app users say they’re not looking for a serious relationship. Online dating apps like Tinder, originally marketed as casual and convenient, have been linked to the rise of “hookup culture.” The swipe mechanism creates a dopamine feedback loop—similar to social media likes—that gratify instant attraction over deeper compatibility.
“I felt great,” said Kent, 22, adding that he was also shocked by the number of people liking him.
Meanwhile, he expressed that there are “doubts” about dating apps, as they have the potential for some people not being themselves, but that kind of situation gave him a thrill.
LIE: Scam Me Maybe
The curated nature of dating profiles: heavily filtered photos, embellished bios, selective storytelling, can lead to unrealistic expectations. Many dating app users have admitted to lying on their profiles to achieve more favorable search results. Even worse, catfishing and romance scams have become rampant, wherein 1 out of 10 dating profiles are fake and over $547 million was lost to online dating scams in the US in 2021. To address this issue, some apps now offer identity verification and video chat options, but users are still advised to remain cautious, as some scammers can still find ways to victimize people.
Love in Low Battery
Dating apps can empower people to find love or companionship at their own pace, but they can also be emotionally exhausting. “Frustrated because I feel that I’m falling behind, but sometimes I feel nothing,” said Angeles, 22, saying that online dating apps can drain people’s energy.
Psychologist Dr. Gary W. Lewandowski Jr. explains that using an online dating app is hard to navigate and can often lead to “dating app burnout.” Research also revealed that among the 79% of recent dating app users who are excited about their potential partners, 88% of the sample people are disappointed with the results. The paradox of choice often leaves users overwhelmed, reducing genuine emotional connection to a numbers game.
So, are dating apps about love, lust, or lies? The answer is: all of the above, depending on the user, their intentions, and the level of honesty they bring to the table.
Dating apps are tools. Like any tool, their outcome depends on how they’re used. Whether you’re looking for a soulmate, a casual date, or just someone to talk to, the key lies in being authentic, aware, and clear about what you seek.
