Investigation Examines Distinct Approaches of Male and Female Users in Online Dating Platforms
In the ever-evolving world of online dating, a series of studies have shed light on the factors influencing swipe choices and the role of gender.
A recent study published in Computers in Human Behaviour delved into swipe decisions across six traits: looks, height, job, biography text, intelligence, and similarity between the selector and target. The findings revealed that physical appearance overwhelmingly drives early online dating decisions, surpassing other commonly cited traits such as intelligence or occupation. This pattern, interestingly, remains consistent across genders.
Another study published in PLOS One further explored this trend. It found that women's swiping behavior is less likely to be "aspirational" and more strategic, with women tending to contact men who are perceived to be slightly less or roughly the same in terms of desirability and attractiveness.
The demand-supply disparity in online dating, with a large number of men vying for a small number of women, can lead to intense competition and rejection for men who only go for their "ideal" matches. Even the most desirable men receive fewer swipes than women considered "below average" in desirability by users.
This imbalance can take a toll on users, as a 2020 study published in BMC Psychology discovered that users of swipe-based dating apps are more likely to report depression, anxiety, and psychological distress than non-users. A total of 53% of singles claim dating burnout, with men specifically indicating insecurity over not getting replies.
However, it's not all doom and gloom. Men account for about 34% of users, while women account for about 27%, giving women more choice and negotiating power. To navigate expectations on dating apps, men should focus on being genuine and patient, make thoughtful first moves, not internalize rejection, and enhance their profile tactically.
The successful matching outcomes tend to align more closely with women's preferences than with men's, likely reflecting women's stronger position in the online dating market. This was highlighted in a study published in PLOS One, which found that desirability on dating apps is skewed, with a small number of users, mostly women, receiving a large number of swipes, while many users receive none or very few.
To evaluate if one's swiping habits are out of control, there's the Problematic Tinder Use Scale, a science-backed test. As of now, there are no search results explicitly identifying the researchers who conducted a July 2025 study analyzing Czech dating app swipe data to determine factors important for men’s and women’s usage.
Interestingly, the Pew Research Center reports that 63% of men under 30 claim to be single, compared to 34% of women of the same age group. As of 2025, approximately 80 million Americans are currently using dating apps or websites, representing about 30% of adults.
Lastly, a study by Topinkova and Diviak points out that rejection and competition naturally balance out initial ambitions, leading to more realistic partnerships. Men, in particular, should remember that real connections happen between people who are more evenly matched.
In conclusion, while online dating can be challenging, understanding the dynamics at play can help users navigate the landscape more effectively. By being mindful of their swipe choices, being genuine, and remembering that real connections happen between people who are more evenly matched, users can increase their chances of finding meaningful relationships.
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