A new survey by Axios and Generation Lab has found that college students overwhelmingly prefer to meet people in person than use dating apps.
Of the 978 students surveyed, 79 per cent said they don’t use any dating apps, even as infrequently as once a month. The most popular dating app among college students is Tinder, which 12 per cent said they used at least monthly. Even among those who do use dating apps, many students expressed frustration with them.
“I feel dating apps have ruined the dating scene for many people my age and ruined their self-confidence,” said Melanie Perez, a junior at Sam Houston State University. “I’d rather meet and start as friends than use an app that’ll most likely end in hookups.”
The survey also found that beliefs are the most important factor for college students when considering potential partners. A plurality of respondents (37 per cent) ranked beliefs higher than professional goals or looks. And most college students (65 per cent) said they wouldn’t go on a date with someone who voted differently from them in the 2020 presidential election.
These findings suggest that dating apps may not be the best way for college students to find meaningful relationships. Instead, students may prefer to meet people through shared interests, activities, or social circles.
The sources for this piece include an article in Axios.