Teenagers are increasingly turning to dating apps, a trend that raises significant concerns among experts and parents alike. Recent research published in the Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science reveals that 23.5% of teens aged 13 to 18 have used dating apps over a six-month period, a figure higher than previously estimated. This study, notable for tracking teens’ keyboard activity instead of relying on self-reports, sheds light on the potential risks and implications of teen usage of these platforms.
The study, while not finding a general increase in mental health issues among all teen users, did note that frequent users of dating apps were more likely to exhibit symptoms of major depressive disorders. According to Lilian Li, the study’s lead author and a postdoctoral fellow at Northwestern University, “This study showed some support for dating app users having greater depressive symptoms and greater engagement in risky behaviors.”
The Dangers of Online Dating for Teens
One of the primary concerns about teens using dating apps is the potential exposure to dangerous situations. Online platforms are often frequented by registered sex offenders, posing a significant risk to young users. The risk of ‘catfishing,’ where individuals create false identities to manipulate others, is particularly high, potentially leading to emotional manipulation or even extortion.
The teenage brain, as explained by the UCLA Center for the Developing Adolescent, is particularly susceptible to taking risks in pursuit of rewards, making them vulnerable to the dangers posed by online dating. This susceptibility is evident in the study’s findings that teens engaging in other risky behaviors, such as substance use, are more likely to use dating apps.
A spokesperson for the Match Group, which owns popular apps like Tinder, emphasized, “Minors are not permitted on our dating apps, full stop. Our platforms are for adults 18 and older, and we deploy industry-leading technology and human oversight to keep underage users off them.”
The Impact on Relationship Skills
Beyond safety concerns, dating apps may also hinder the development of essential interpersonal skills among teenagers. These platforms can create an illusion of endless romantic options, potentially discouraging teens from investing in meaningful, face-to-face relationships. As one interviewee for Kara Alaimo’s book noted, “If someone upsets you for the smallest reason, you can go to a dating app and find someone else.”
Harvard University research underscores the importance of close relationships for happiness and health, suggesting that the transient nature of app-based interactions may not fulfill these needs. Teens need to practice skills like communication, empathy, and conflict resolution, which are crucial for personal and professional success.
Alternative Ways to Foster Social Connections
Parents concerned about their teens’ use of dating apps should explore alternative ways for them to meet their social and emotional needs. Encouraging participation in extracurricular activities can help teens connect with peers who share similar interests, fostering genuine friendships and potential romantic relationships.
For teens who are sexual and gender minorities, dating apps may seem like a valuable tool for connection. However, parents can support these teens in finding inclusive communities where they can meet like-minded individuals face-to-face, providing a safer and more supportive environment.
Preparing Teens for Future Use of Dating Apps
Despite the risks, dating apps are a prevalent part of modern dating culture, with 30% of Americans having used them, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey. Parents should educate teens on safe practices for future use, such as video chatting before meeting in person, choosing public meeting places, and informing loved ones about their whereabouts.
While the new research highlights the growing use of dating apps among teens, it also serves as a call to action for parents to engage in open conversations with their children. By addressing these concerns now, parents can help their teens develop healthy relationship habits that will serve them well into adulthood.
