In the United States, million adults find themselves seeking romantic connection Campbell et al. Dating, a concept as diverse as the people who engage in it, has evolved across generations, influenced by cultural shifts and historical milestones.
Fueled by evolving societal norms, rebellion against traditional courtship, global events, and technological leaps, dating in the U. More recently, empirical investigations indicate an evolving terrain within dating culture, marked by an increasing prioritization of traits such as emotional maturity, mental well-being, and the establishment of substantial connections Match, ; Andini, Men, too, are expressing increased interest in finding long-term partners, reflecting a broader trend towards emotional connection and compatibility Brown, The COVID pandemic has also fostered a notable reconfiguration of dating practices, prominently characterized by a shift towards virtual mediums as the principal avenue for romantic engagements Bandinelli, ; Gibson, As lockdowns and social distancing mandates swept the nation, virtual dating emerged as a lifeline for many grappling with isolation.
While some faced heightened loneliness, others found deeper intimacy in their relationships Dailey et al. Amid these changes, technology, particularly dating apps, emerged as a significant tool in maintaining social bonds and fostering new connections Marston et al. Dating apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble have democratized the dating scene, making it more accessible and acceptable Lunden, ; Pamanian, Dating via mobile apps has become increasingly prevalent, with about one in 10 Americans using online platforms for dating Shen et al.
What began as stigmatized and niche has now become a mainstream phenomenon, offering users diverse ways to connect Duguay et al. Dating apps offer several advantages, including expanded access to potential partners and cost-effective communication Marston et al.
They allow users to assess compatibility before meeting in person, enhancing the dating process Andini, Virtual dating also facilitates intimate communication, contributing to relationship building Van Ouytsel et al.
