Tinder App Becoming a More Prevalent Option in the Dating World

By: Jessica Danielle Ramirez

Love comes in all colors, shapes and sizes — and now swipes.

There is a popular trend among teens that allows them to find a date, a hookup, or love in the simplicity of an app. The Tinder App gives users the ability to select potential partners by their looks and mutual interests.

Tinder is simple, arguably addictive and may be beneficial to those seeking a casual fling or looking for new friends.

Nikki Novo, a self-help blogger, teacher and relationship expert, said, “[Tinder] brings back the superficial aspect of dating because it works strictly off of who you are attracted to.”

Dating apps like Tinder gives users the ability to connect with others in the blink of an eye, but it is also making an impact in today’s dating culture.

“People may get used to the quick process that Tinder offers and lose the human connection we make,” she said.

Gabriel, 23, from Phoenix is one of the many users who downloaded the app out of curiosity and began to swipe through the photos. 

“I use the app to talk to other people and connect,” he said.

Tinder is also known for being a place to get in touch with others, meet new people, seek out potential boyfriends or girlfriends or even hook up. Although the app sounds fun and can be flattering in many ways, it can paint a pseudo idea of what a relationship is.

“Relationships are a slow process and should be nurtured. If the initial is fast, you will rush the getting to know the boyfriend or girlfriend process. You then realize life isn’t that fast, and then you get disappointed,” Novo said.

According to the Cut, Tinder is the fastest growing dating app in the United States connecting more than two million matches per day.

The number of Tinder downloads is growing and while it is predominately used as a dating app, some have found it useful for expanding their circle of friends.

Christian Flores, who moved to Phoenix from Tucson five months ago, began using the app to make friends. “I am not using it as a dating site. I am using it to meet new people and hang out,” he said.

For some it has boosted their self-esteem.

“I use Tinder to talk to people and it also feels flattering to see how many people are attracted to you,” said 24 year-old Ashley Morris.

And for others, it is used as a tool for finding love. 

As dating apps continue to become mainstream, the value of romance and friendship may come short.“We are taught that having a relationship will make us happy guaranteed, but if you aren’t in a place where you can be happy on your own, a relationship will only place a band aid on the void,” Novo said.

“If we can look at dating as a fun discovery process, it will not only be more successful, but you will be happier not just in the destination,” Novo explained.

Whether one chooses to play along with the Tinder game or chooses to opt out, it is inevitable that the possibility of instant gratification may be found in a thumb tap away.