Are Dating Sites Worth It? What Research Says

Are you thinking of giving dating apps a try? You’ve seen friends do the same, and more than a few turned out fine. So, why shouldn’t you? After all, you know you’re wise enough not to fall victim to phishing. Right?

To help guide you through, we’ll talk about what the research says about dating sites. This way, you can decide for yourself whether or not they’re worth your time and effort. Alternatively, you can read this detailed LoveMe.com dating site review to give you an idea of what to expect.

What Research Says About Dating Sites

According to a 2019 survey by the Pew Research Center, 30 percent of US adults have used a dating site or app. Of these people, the majority claims that their overall experience was positive.

For the past decade or so, online dating platforms have become an avenue for lonely hearts to find their soulmates. In truth, though, dating sites have been around for many years.

Since most people have access to the internet, online dating services have made it possible for busy professionals to find time and opportunity to meet new people and ultimately find their true love.

Currently, there are over 1,500 dating websites and apps. According to Statistics, the number of users is expected to increase annually, and that by 2024, there will be 54 million users of dating sites.

While it’s difficult to measure the success rate of online dating, data shows that dating sites are among the most common points of contact for couples in the US. According to a 2019 study, most online dating site users had met or know someone who had met their romantic partner through these platforms.

Why Use Dating Sites?

When it comes down to the question of whether online dating works, the quick answer is yes. However, like anything else, it isn’t for everyone. Furthermore, like all matters in love, online dating has its pros and cons. The use of online dating sites is tied to several benefits, such as:

Access

Undoubtedly, online dating allows individuals to meet more potential partners with a simple tap on their keyboard. Online dating services are also an excellent venue for people interested in finding partners from particular locations, lifestyles, or orientations.

Personality Matching

Many online dating sites and apps offer various types of personality testing and matching. By pairing couples with the right amount of similarities to understand each other, these platforms can help you meet people who share your interests.

Communication

Online dating sites provide several ways to help people know a potential date before meeting them in person. Additionally, legitimate sites provide members’ profiles that have gone through authenticity checks. Information verification can include anything from relationship history, education background, and work experience.

Cons of Online Dating Services

Experiences in online dating tend to be mixed. Some have excellent experiences that end in satisfying relationships, while others are not so lucky. Here’s why online dating might not be for you:

It Can Be Confusing

Given the massive number of choices, finding potential partners can be confusing and overwhelming for some. Many find themselves caught up in a frustrating journey of “shopping” for the perfect partner rather than actually finding a satisfying relationship. Furthermore, matching is a complex process, and testing may not be accurate for everyone.

Communication Issues

Nothing beats getting to know a person face-to-face. Online communication can be lacking in the information that you get from in-person conversations. As a result, it’s more challenging to evaluate a potential match online.

Negative Experiences

Just as meeting people in person, there’s always a chance for negative experiences with online dating. The Pew study also reported that 42 percent of women were contacted by someone who made them feel harassed or uncomfortable.

Proven Ways to Succeed in Online Dating

Should you decide to pursue online dating, here are some tips that are proven to help you succeed:

Choose the right dating platform.

Look for a legitimate online dating site that provides reliable services and pays attention to its members’ authenticity. Be selective. Some sites have a reputation for being hookup sites; others are designed to connect people of the same orientation, religion, or some other shared attribute.

Write an interesting profile.

When creating your profile, you have to be authentic and be able to demonstrate sincerity. Don’t write as if you’re trying to impress. Instead, showcase your true personality, and don’t be afraid to show your vulnerability.

Know that some things must still be done the old-fashioned way.

Lastly, remember that online dating is just a way to open doors to meet and date people. The success of your relationship will greatly depend on what happens after the meetup. After all, there are certain things that people can’t find out from a profile or from chatting online.

Are Dating Sites For You?

Online dating sites are great places to meet new people and find a potential match. However, not everyone who engages in online dating succeeds. Make sure to keep in mind the pointers mentioned earlier to increase your chances of finding “the one” through an online dating site