Tuesday 25/02/2025
PHOTO: Katarina Wolnik Vera
TEXT: Sara Valls
We live in the digital age, where practically everything can be done from our phone: ordering food, working, socializing… and, of course, finding a partner. Dating apps have radically changed the way we relate and connect with other people. Currently, there are more than 337 million users worldwide, with 18-29 year olds being the group that uses them the most.
But while they may seem like harmless and even fun tools, numerous recent studies have found that frequent use of dating apps could be affecting our self-esteem, body image and mental health.
How do these apps work and how the use of these apps affect our mental health?
The main reason is the way they work: most of these platforms present profiles with very little written information, being limited to photos, name and age, with brief biographies that in many cases we only see if we click. As a result, users end up being judged almost exclusively on their physical appearance, reinforcing a culture of superficial evaluation and external validation.
The tinder effect and other consequences of dating apps:
- Increased body dissatisfaction: 86.4% of the studies reviewed by Bowman et al. (2024) found a negative relationship between dating app use and self-image perception. Constant comparison with other profiles and pressure to fit aesthetic standards can lead to increased insecurity and dissatisfaction with one’s own body.
- Increased self-objectification: many people begin to perceive themselves as a “product” that must be attractive to others, which can lead to an obsession with image.
- Impact on self-esteem and mental health: More than half of the studies found that the use of these platforms is associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress. In addition, facing rejection can affect perceptions of self-worth.
So, are dating apps good or bad in 21st century mental health?
Dating apps are neither good nor bad in and of themselves. They can be a useful tool for meeting people, but their impact will depend on how we use them and the relationship we have with our own self-esteem.
Some recommendations for using them:
- Use them in moderation: Avoid letting them become your only way to socialize or look for a partner. Balance their use with face-to-face interactions.
- Redefine your dating app experience: Remember that “matches” or lack thereof do not measure your value, your authenticity and well-being are what really matter.
- Be aware of the emotional impact: If you notice that the use of these apps negatively affects your mood or self-esteem, consider taking a break.
Dating apps can be a tool to connect with others, but we must be aware of their impact.
Take care of your self-esteem and enjoy the process.
References
Bowman, Z., Drummond, M., Church, J., Kay, J., & Petersen, J. M. (2024). Dating apps and their relationship with body image, mental health and wellbeing: a systematic review. Computers In Human Behavior, 108515. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2024.108515