My Opinion on Online Dating

            After learning about online dating in class, it really never occurred to me how often it is used and how successful it is for the people that use it.  Maybe it is because I am at an age where I would not think about using a website like eHarmony or Match.com.  However, the more I think about it, relationships are formed everyday over social media, and that sometimes transfers into dating.  My main opinion on online dating is that it should be up to the individual whether they do it or not.  I do not consider myself a shy person, and in class we discussed outgoing people using online dating websites less because they do not need to communicate over the computer or phone to start a relationship.  That being said, I do not think I will ever use online dating websites, however, that is just I as an individual.  Many of people in this world rely on computer-mediated communication because it makes them more confident and allows them to open up more in a shorter amount of time.

            As far as online dating goes, as long as a couple does it correctly, I would never look down on it.  Studies showed that if a couple talks and opens up to each other before they meet face to face for the first time; their relationship is more likely to last.  Knowing and having this information, there is really no reason for an online dating relationship to not work out – unless if the partners in the relationship find out they are not compatible.  I personally have never started a dating relationship online, however, I have started friendships.  Actually, a lot of my friendships started just by a tweet or an Instagram follow.  A relationship grows very easily with the help of computer-mediated communication because there is no reason to hold back.  A Instagram follow turns into an Instagram like then before you know it you’re exchanging phone numbers, which ultimately translates into a relationship with the help of computer-mediated communication and face to face. 

            In summary, online dating has helped couples find their partner for a very long time now.  It will continue to serve as a popular way for people to meet their loved ones.  Online dating is not for everyone; one must have patience for the right person to come to them and since their limited to communication via computer – showing the match your true personality must be number one on the list.  Studies have shown that people do lie (stretch the truth) on online dating websites.  This is basically the only negative to testing out online dating.  Also, the fear of being catfished is very much a thing in today’s world.  However, online dating will always serve as a way for people to find their partner.  As I stated, people that have the confidence most likely do not use online dating website.  Obviously though, not everyone has the confidence that some people do have.  For that reason, online dating will always be a tool that people will use in order to find the love that they have been searching for.  There are many successful and strong relationships from online dating, and websites have the technology to make it happen.