When I talk to others about my research into online dating, many of them convey their own stories to me. I’ve learned that this is an amazing way to glimpse into how others use online dating in their own unique ways: the experience of using these services when middle-aged, success stories where they end up getting married, horror stories (so, so many…), how they use X service for hooking up and Y service for serious dating.
This is part of why I want to cross-pollinate the features and dynamics of LGBT-exclusive networks with straight ones: different circles use these services in different ways. How does having “adult-only, unlockable” pictures and listed STI statuses affect the way straight people use, or shy away from, these services?
I’m interviewing a broad array of individuals on their memorable moments in online dating. Results to come.
