How do you successfully meet someone online? An easy analysis of the pros of online dating can prove to be extremely helpful. It is possible to do such a psychological analysis with the help of psychology research. For more information on dating sites.
Online Dating Analysis
Finkel and Associates (2012) conducted a comprehensive literature review that examined various aspects of online romance. Their review had two goals: 1) to evaluate whether online daters were fundamentally different than face to face dating and 2) to assess if they were superior. They found that dating online was different than traditional dating in several ways. It has some positive features, as well as potential issues. Finkel and associates (2012) discovered that online dating had three major differences:
1. Access
Pros: Online dating gave individuals access to more potential partners that they might not be able find in daily life. This is especially true when you’re looking for partners in particular areas, types, orientations, lifestyles, or are just interested in finding someone who lives in your area.
Cons: It is easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of potential partners. Online daters could get caught up in “shopping” endlessly for the perfect partner rather than actually starting a relationship.
2. Matching
Pros: Numerous online dating sites offer a variety of personality matching and testing. These matches can be used as a guide to find partners who are more compatible.
Cons: Because matching is difficult, testing may not work for everyone. Additionally, people might present differently or change over the course of time. Matching can lead to missing potential good partners.
3. Communication
Pros: There are many ways to meet potential partners online before meeting up in person. Computer-mediated communication facilitates safe and comfortable interaction, with minimal risk. These communication are a great way for safety-conscious professionals or busy professionals to “test out” potential partners.
Cons: Not all information is available online. It’s therefore harder to judge a potential match online. Computers cannot handle certain cues or features that build attraction (such as touching). These computer-mediated communications may be artificial or unemotional.
Online Dating: Use it to Your Advantage
Online dating comes with both risks and benefits. So how can you make the most of online dating? Here are some ideas.
Access:
Although having many options is great, keep them manageable. Do not spend hours “browsing” on the internet if your goal is to have a face-to–face interaction with someone. Instead, limit your search down to a particular area or a few “must-have” features. Talk to people who are on your short list, and not just “shopping”. Make sure that you know what you are looking for in a partner and what you can offer them. This will ensure you succeed among the many choices. For more information on interesting topics, click reno articles.
Matching:
Although they may not be able pinpoint your ideal match, online tests can help narrow down the choices. Such testing can identify potential partners that would make poor relationships. You may need to date several matches before you find the right match. However, matching can help to avoid disasters. You should also trust your unconscious feelings. Your implicit “gut reactions”, which can have a significant impact on attraction, are important.
Communication:
Internet communication is intended to establish a first connection, but not establish a lasting relationship. Be focused on setting up a date and establishing a connection in the initial online conversation. It is usually enough to have a few short emails and brief conversations. Long introduction emails may prove counterproductive and off putting. You can save it for a special occasion. If you have limited time, meet for coffee (see this). You may still be concerned about safety, so meet in public.
Conclusion
Online dating should only be used to meet potential partners for face-to–face dating. It is important to keep this goal in mind so you don’t get stuck on the downsides and limitations of online dating. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the next step is to make an introduction toward a date. If you’re overwhelmed by all the options, narrow them down to find better matches. For those who aren’t sure what to do with potential matches, you can send them a quick email. If you feel frustrated when communicating online, it is time to suggest a meeting in person. This will help you to find a more satisfying connection both online and face to face.
