By Ariana Cano |Staff writer|
Online dating applications and websites can be a fun and useful tool, but some users may take them too seriously.
Online dating users should keep in mind that many people may only want to engage in casual sex or a quick hook-up.
While some agree dating sites are an innovative way of breaking the ice, others claim it is a waste of time.
Dating websites or apps such as eHarmony, Match, Tinder, Grindr, BlackPeopleMeet, Christian Mingle, and many others are created for people to connect online, regardless of location.
When signing up, the user must provide information such as name, age, gender, sexual preference, a profile picture, and a brief personal description.
After signing up for eHarmony, I was told that they were unable to find the right type of person for me.
As for Tinder, I did receive a few matches based on the amount of right swipes I gave. Overall the experience was amusing, yet disappointing.
Based on the information provided, the user is given options of people that fit what they’re looking for and vice-versa.
Tinder is one of the many social dating apps that grants access by signing up with your Facebook account.
It finds other users that share your similar friends and interests by displaying the other users profile picture, name, and age.
You can either swipe left to ignore a person, or swipe right to meet and start chatting with the user online.
Another user must swipe right on your profile to match, and only then can you interact with them through the app.
If you’re indecisive on which way to swipe, you can tap on the profile picture to view a brief biography and more pictures.
CSUSB student Abel Vieyra uses Tinder to pass time and engage with other users.
“I have used Tinder just for fun. I’m not looking for a serious relationship on there,” said Vieyra.
Students should understand that everyone has different purposes for using dating sites, and that there are potential risks.
One of these risks is ‘catfishing’ which is when someone is lured into a relationship by a fictional online persona.
“When you get on these dating sites you risk getting catfished. or you might get someone who acts differently in person,” said CSUSB student Robert Stamer.
However, the end results always depends on the individual; some users are lucky in finding their significant other, while others may get heartbroken, or simply give up because they think dating apps and websites became a waste of time.
Here are my tips and suggestions when using these dating apps and/or websites:
Tip #1 Be cautious! If you plan to meet this person, make sure you talk with them on the phone prior to meeting in a public place. Also, let your friends know where you are.
Tip #2 Have fun and be yourself. Don’t try to force a relationship. It takes time just enjoy the experience.
Tip #3 If online dating isn’t for you, try “the old fashion way” by socializing face-to-face with people who share common interests.
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