It is often believed that Tinder, Bumble or Meetic are used only to look for a soul mate, or an adventure of an evening. But a new metalthisse, published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationshipshipsreveals a much richer and nuanced reality of meeting apps. By compiling 21 qualitative studies around the world, the researchers have highlighted eight big motivations that push users to these platforms – motivations that range from curiosity to the need to break solitude, including the search for recognition and self -confidence.
A different approach to research
So far, most of the work on online meetings were based on quantitative surveys, with predefined lists of responses ranging from the search for an adventure to that of the soul mate. Result: many nuances passed to the hatch, especially those of marginalized groups (LGBTQ+, senior, cultural minorities).
Conversely, qualitative studies give the floor to the users themselves. The metasynthesis led by the team of Rachael Robnett (University of Nevada) thus made it possible to analyze the testimonies collected in 21 international surveys (United States, South Africa, India, Mexico, China …), in order to understand in depth what the apps represent for each.
Break solitude and find a link
Among the most striking motivations (and well before the desire for a melee) is socialization. Many register to discuss, make friends, meet people on travel or break up isolation, especially from the pandemic.
Among seniors, this reason has even more weight: it is less to seduce than to find a human presence and to forge emotional ties.
Feel valued and regain confidence
Another strong motivation: personal improvement. Apps become a space where you test its power of seduction, where you experience your identity, where each “match” can restore confidence. Some use them to rebuild themselves after a break, others to verify that they “still please”.
“”People are not only looking for a partner: they also use these platforms to discover themselves and strengthen their self-esteem “underlines Rachael Robnett.
Love, sex … but not only
Of course, love remains a central motivation, whether it is a sustainable partner or marriage.
Sex is also present, but there again, the results break the clichés: these are not always fast adventures. Some use apps to explore their sexuality in a secure manner, or as part of a serious relationship.
Other lighter motivations also exist: entertainment (pass time, distracting themselves), convenience (simpler than approaching someone in the street), curiosity (“everyone tries, so why not me?”) Or even external factors (social pressure, influence of friends).
Finally, a more “safe” place for certain groups
The study also shows that motivations vary according to age and sexual orientation.
Thus, LGBTQ+ users more often cite the search for safety and belonging. In some countries where displaying your orientation can be risky, the apps offer a safer meeting space. The elderly favor the need for affection, company and stability. And find in this use shoe at their foot.
These nuances recall that apps are not experienced in the same way by all and that they can play an essential role for marginalized groups.
For more social use tomorrow?
This research also invites the designers of apps to rethink their tools. Since users do not all seek love or sex, why not better integrate features dedicated to friendship, emotional support or personal development? Some apps are already starting to explore this path.
Ultimately, meeting apps have become much more than a space for seduction. They are also a way to exchange, live and connect. Behind each profile and each “match”, there is more than a charming story. But a personal story, a quest for human bond and a search for intimate balance.