Review of the Scientific Literature on Online Dating Services

The use of online dating services has significantly increased in recent years. This growth has prompted an expanding body of scientific literature examining the demographic and social implications of using these platforms. This study explores the evolving research landscape of online dating services (based on a bibliographic database of 528 scientific publications retrieved from 5 scholarly publishers from 2010 to 2022).

Using content analysis, 9 primary research themes were identified:

• Online dating platforms and methods (social networks and specialized online dating services).
• Traditional (offline) dating methods (comparative aspects of online and offline dating).
• User actions and interactions.
• Dating goals.
• External characteristics of romantic partners.
• Internal characteristics of romantic partners.
• Risks and disadvantages of online dating.
• Marital status and relationship dynamics.
• Thin Markets.

The bibliographic database provides valuable insights into the trajectory of research on online dating over the past decade. Key findings emerged from the analysis:

1. Growing research interest: the study reveals a significant increase in publications related to online dating in recent years. This trend is partially attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the adoption of online dating.
2. Focus on thin markets: the analysis highlights the growing attention paid to the experiences of individuals within limited marriage markets: LGBTQ+ community, racial and ethnic groups.
3. Emphasis on risks and problems: the study reveals a consistent focus on the risks and challenges associated with online dating.
4. Dominance of Tinder as a case study: Notably, nearly 80% of the analyzed publications focus solely on the use of Tinder as a subject of study.

The findings suggest a continued growth in research on online dating services in the coming years. The declining popularity of offline communication among younger generations, coupled with the increasing accessibility and use of online platforms, are expected to further fuel this trend.