The Dating Trends - traditional vs digital dating

Going online represents an environment where individuals can interact with kindred spirits, and this has been particularly embraced by marginalized communities, such as people identifying as LGBT. But for others, nothing will ever replace the genuine connections that can only be made with face-to-face encounters. So when it comes to dating trends, which is best, traditional or digital?

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Choice of partners

If this was a two-horse race, when it comes to choice, digital dating would be the clear winner. When singles go to what might be termed the 'traditional' dating outlets, such as nightclubs, where there tends to be a high percentage of other singles, their pool of potential partners is restricted to the other patrons who happen to be sharing their location. Opposite to that according to dating consultants from affairdating.com, the moment you sign up for a virtual dating service, they will have a practically unlimited list of like-minded individuals at their disposal. Also, in the offline world, you have no real way of knowing anyone's motivations. The people you will encounter on digital dating platforms have all joined for the same reason you have – to meet someone for a relationship.

Flexibility

People are complicated, so there are all sorts of reasons why they pursue a relationship. There are infinite websites out there, catering to everything from 'vanilla' dating to LGBTQ+ partnerships, polyamorous dating to interracial relationships. There are many niche areas – if you wanted to connect with fellow Star Wars fans who love dressing up as your favorite characters, you could probably find the ideal site with minimal searching! In the 21st-century, dating trends are becoming increasingly nuanced and sophisticated, and the virtual world is best adapted to cater to these diverse tastes.

Developing a rapport

Where offline dating will still prove effective is where couples are getting familiar with each other. While it is certainly possible to kindle sparks of chemistry when communicating via any website's messaging service, the ultimate aim of online dating is to introduce individuals who will then get together in the real world for 'proper dates.' It is only by interacting in a face-to-face situation, with less likelihood of comments being misinterpreted and the addition of body language, that couples will truly come together and start to gel.

Dating against the backdrop of COVID-19

The pandemic has instilled a widespread sense of caution. Digital dating allows individuals to spend more time assessing a potential partner's suitability by asking pertinent questions. Have they been exposed to the virus? Have they been infected at some point? What stage are they at in the vaccination process? Does their employment or family background put them at greater risk? These are all issues that can be covered during text exchanges as you are getting to know each other on a dating site.

Economical factors

While it might not be the most romantic of notions, but dating can put a considerable dent in anyone's wallet. Treating successive prospective partners to restaurant or coffeeshop experiences, not to mention showering them with gifts, can prove an expensive pastime. Going online allows you to conduct your courtship in an atmosphere where the only outlay is the monthly fee for accessing your favorite website's functionality.

Jessica Tanner

Update 14 February 2021