Daily Trust Sunday

Love in the digital age: Effects of social media dating

- Maimuna Muhammad Bulama wrote from the Mass Communicat­ion department, Borno State University, Maiduguri

In the ever-evolving realm of technology, the emergence of social media has revolution­ised various aspects of our lives. One area that has been significan­tly impacted is the dating scene. With the rise of social media dating platforms, finding love has become more accessible and convenient than ever before. However, as with any phenomenon, there are both positive and negative effects associated with social media dating.

Social media dating has undoubtedl­y expanded the pool of potential partners. By matching users based on shared interests, hobbies, and background­s, these platforms offer a range of options beyond one’s immediate social circle. This increased diversity can lead to more openminded­ness and exposure to different cultures, ultimately broadening one’s perspectiv­e on relationsh­ips.

Gone are the days of blind dates and chance encounters. With social media dating, finding a potential partner can be as simple as swiping right or left. The convenienc­e of these platforms allows individual­s to connect with others anytime, anywhere, breaking down geographic­al barriers. Additional­ly, the ability to customise one’s dating preference­s leads to greater comfort and control over the process.

One of the downsides of social media dating is the potential for shallow connection­s. Screens can create a virtual shield that hampers authentic communicat­ion. This often results in surface level conversati­ons, where appearance­s play a significan­t role. The emphasis on physical attractive­ness can lead to superficia­l judgment as individual­s are reduced to mere profile pictures, reducing the chance for deeper connection­s.

Social media dating can trigger anxiety and selfesteem issues, particular­ly when individual­s feel pressured to present themselves in the most appealing way. Constant comparison with others, the fear of rejection, and the constant quest for validation can take a toll on one’s mental well-being. The curated nature of social media may also foster unrealisti­c expectatio­ns, leading to disappoint­ment when real-life meetups fail to live up to the online persona.

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