Online dating: A motivated behavior during pandemic

Abstract

Online dating received a recent upsurge since the outbreak
of pandemic with most people confining themselves to
virtual dating. This paper conceptualizes and draws
conclusion from the existing literature stating the factors
responsible for an increase in online dating. Owing to home
restrictions and social distancing, people turned to online
dating apps mainly to maintain the social connection and
interaction, get introduced to potential suitors and also
worked as a stress buster. Besides these factors, abundant
time at hand and the chance to be true and comfortable in
one's own space, such factors served to cope with the threat
faced on safety and belongingness through use of online
dating. Consequently, online dating applications are seen
favorable by the majority due to its accessibility, anonymity
and lesser emotional exhaustion because of perceived
behavioral control.