More than 41 million Internet users have tried online dating at least once. Some people are still skeptical about online dating despite the high number of users. Many skeptics are concerned about the risk of predatory practices and dishonesty. Some people have a mindset that online dating cannot be successful because the members do not initially see each other face-to-face. Other people simply do not believe that online dating works, and they do not necessarily have reasons for their skepticism.
Does Online Dating Work?
Statistics show that online dating does work for some people. Approximately 20 percent of people who meet online end up in long-term relationships. Approximately 17 percent of people who meet online end up getting married. The statistics are not as successful as those of people who meet in person are. However, they do prove that online dating can work. Online dating is just a platform that people use to extend their reach to prospective mates that may live far away. Once the two daters meet in person, then the rest of the process is the same as physical dating.
The problems that arise in the online dating world are dishonesty and simultaneous dating. Some people take advantage of the system because of the freedom and anonymity that it gives them. More than 53 percent of online daters admitted in a survey that they dated more than one person at the same time. Current surveys also showed that 10 percent of sex offenders used online dating mediums to meet potential victims. Therefore, online dating does present a high risk for foul play.
How to Make Online Dating Work
Members can make online dating work by using caution when selecting an online dating platform. Some platforms or websites are free for all people who want to become members. The free membership allows some predators and dishonest married people to enter. Paid dating sites may be a bit safer for members, but sites that have strict guidelines are better. Prospective members should always read the FAQs section of any online dating site they are thinking of joining. Additionally, they should perform online searches to see what former and current users are saying about the sites.
Another way to make online dating work is to report any cases of harassment. Harassment includes sexually degrading comments, illegal operations, unwanted emails, threats, verbal abuse and the like. Reporting such activities will keep the online dating community honest and clean.
A new member should not give out any personal information to potential dates until the parties establish trust. The member should plan first dates at public establishments only, and he or she should inform a close friend or family member of the dates for safety reasons. Other than that, the online daters will have to discover mutual sparks for an online dating session to fare well.
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