Dating Apps In College: Helping Or Hurting?
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As Valentine's Day approaches, we’re reminded that the day symbolizes romance and relationships. But as far as modern-day romance goes, is love still in the air? Or is it online?
How does online dating work on a small campus like Marist College, as opposed to a school with hundreds of thousands of students? And in today's day and age, is it possible to find love offline?
“I think dating apps in college are helpful if it's people from your school. Not random people from different areas; I feel like that's dangerous,” said Alina Martinez ‘26.
Technology has allowed us to connect to more and more people than ever before, and this includes romantic relationships. Although online dating can be controversial, more people are downloading apps allowing this generation to swipe for love.
A recent Axios and Generation Lab survey found that 79% of 978 college students surveyed said they did not use dating apps or use them less than once a month. 12% said they used apps Tinder, the most common dating app for students, once a month. A 2020 Pew Research study found that 48% of 18- to 29-year-olds have used dating apps before. Pew Research also concluded that 53% of adults under 50 are using a dating app or have in the past year, based on a 2022 survey.
The skepticism of dating apps can be tied to their authenticity or safety. Tinder and Hinge have both taken steps to ensure the safety of their users. For instance, Tinder's "Dating Safety Tips" page includes advice such as protecting your personal information and financial information, and they also include links on their websites for safe message filters and tips on harassment. Hinge has a webpage full of resources for online dating safety.
“I don't think there's anything wrong with it, but I do think there is sometimes a safety risk with dating apps,” said Isabella Tichio ‘26.
In the digital age, people rely on their phones more than ever, and apps like Tinder are among the top drivers of online dating. As young adults, students naturally explore relationships in college. This is, however, now being explored online rather than in-person.