Online Dating vs. Real-Life Relations
In modern days, online dating is sometimes chosen over real-life dating, especially among younger people and those with a busy lifestyle. It has been trending for quite a while now, and it is so for a reason. As the Internet becomes more and more universal each day, online dating sites and matching apps have won over many hearts as a result of their incredible flexibilities or high recognition. Some might consider them shallow or dangerous while others see it as an innovative and convenient method of meeting and dating new people. Both perspectives have their supporters and opponents. Nevertheless, the debate over this issue has been going on since online dates emerged--is dating online better, worse, or simply different compared to dating in real life?
Although it may be hard to believe, but many researches (e.g., Walther, 1996; Antheunis, Valkenburg, & Peter, 2007; Whitty & Carr, 2006) indicate that people tend to feel more confident sharing their emotions and have more control over the messages they want to pass on when using a medium, such as the Internet or texting. Theoretically, this could lead to deeper and more private conversations. The phenomenon is referred to as the hyperpersonal effect. Thus, online dating can form bonds that are potentially more intimate and stable than real-life ones.
A relationship without physical contact, however, is sometimes unbearable for most people. Those who date in real life are often driven by physical attractions and interactions since it is an instinct of human nature (Byrne, London, & Reeves, 1968). Furthermore, we all crave companies when we lack emotional support, and numerous relationships start from companion. Online dates, on the other hand, lack the opportunities to be with one another. If our loved ones are not able to be with us during difficult times, it is easy to feel left out and have arguments over this problem.
Moreover, while dating online is infused with messaging, Facetiming, lasting phone calls, and bonding spiritually, real-life dating is more about face-to-face conversations, physical intimacy, and the certainty towards the relationship. Since online relationships are based on texting, and talking through cellphones or videos only, the trust would definitely become even more vital than real-life dating. In my opinion, a healthy relationship is all about trusting and communicating with each other. According to this, people with less insecurity may prefer real-life relations than online ones while long-lasting online relationships may require more trust and listening.
In conclusion, both methods of dating are completely capable to form relationships no matter if they are short-term or for the long run. On one hand, online dates are composed of conversations and interactions via the Internet. Additionally, to build a relationship online requires more trust and patience from each other. On the other hand, a real-life relation contains more physical elements and brings about more certainty. Ultimately, to me, it is simply up to one’s preference as long as it’s a mutual thing between the lovers.
References:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15213269.2019.1648217