DATE WITH MORE CONFIDENCE

New research from women-first dating app Bumble, has highlighted the impact poor body image can have when it comes to dating, with 86% saying they feel held back by lack of body confidence. Almost half (44%) of people admit to even cancelling a date due to body insecurities.

With more time spent indoors over the past year and more time spent on the internet and social media, people’s confidence has been affected, with over half (54%) of people saying they are less likely to feel good after spending an extended amount of time online.

The research shows that low self-esteem may still affect people as restrictions start to lift, with results showing that 63% of Irish adults are now more concerned about the way they look than they were pre-Covid. This is most prevalent in those aged 25-34 (68%).

77% of Munster surver participants agree that the way you look impacts your confidence when it comes to dating. And just 40% of people from the province have cancelled a date or social activity due to body anxiety.

The warmer weather and summer season also contribute to poor body confidence with 75% of singletons (70% men, 78% women) in Ireland feeling the pressure to lose weight and get into shape for summer.

In light of this, Bumble has made steps to ensure people feel comfortable to date this summer and has banned body shaming, as well as unsolicited and derogatory comments made about someone’s appearance, body shape, size or health. This includes language that can be deemed fat-phobic, ableist, racist, colourist, homophobic or transphobic.