Swiping right on love? Pros and cons of dating apps

Finding love online or on an app is the kind of topic that will likely get you one of three reactions: skepticism, optimism, or simply avoid it at all costs.

With more than 60 million profiles combined, apps like Tinder, Bumble, Okcupid and Hinge have long dominated the world of digital dating.

Users simply create an online profile, perhaps list some pet peeves, post your best profile pic, and just like that, you've jumped into the world of online dating.

But some critics argue you've also made yourself a face in a never-ending digital catalog of singles waiting to be sized up by a perfect stranger.

A swipe to the left is a "no," a flick to the right is a "yes."

And if you both swipe right, you're a match.

But is it a match for life or for the night? Depends on who you ask.

But love coach Dr. George James says there is a way to increase your odds of finding love.

"If you want a hook up, be clear that you want a hook up. If you want something more long term, meet in the coffee shop, take it from there, more dates so that you can really get to know somebody," James said.

Then there is there is the story of Phil Dibartolo of Fairmount and Lindsay McMenamin of Northern Liberties.

Two Tinder swipes to the right resulted in their now-serious relationship, a rare feat.

"She seemed like a really nice girl, but not too overly inviting," Dibartolo said.

"We are a Tinder success story," McMenamin said.

About 15% of adults say they've turned to the internet for help in the love department.

And the numbers are growing.

Despite the growing popularity of these dating apps, only 5% of Americans who are married or in a committed relationship say they met their significant other online.

The vast majority of relationships still begin the old fashion way, simply meeting each other in person.

----------

Send a breaking news alert
Report a correction or typo
Learn more about the 6abc apps