With the dawn of the digital age, a new way of socialization and connecting with people was born. Almost everyone now has an online presence. This has made hooking up online and dating even more convenient. Your hook-up is one click away from your phone. But does this cultural shift in the way humans interact worth it? In this article, we shall discuss some of the perks and downsides of online hookups.
The use of online platforms is a good way to meet people and make friends as it fulfills and provides benefits that otherwise were impossible with traditional approaches. If you want a list of some of the best platforms to hookup online, read this article. They go in-depth about each of those apps/websites – https://www.dallasobserver.com/storyhub/30-best-hookup-sites-sex-apps
Here’s the benefits of using an online website or app to meet people to hookup with:
Easy access
Social scientists have demonstrated that the majority of the younger generation have opted for online hookup platforms to meet people either for something casual or a long term. This is because it is easier to get started and establish yourself. It provides a friendly platform, especially to those naïve or anxious, by easing them into the hookup world.
Huge variety of people
Online hookup sites provide a more comprehensive social circle to interact with that otherwise isn’t possible via person to person interaction. The probability of meeting your specific preferences is higher. You can therefore be picky and narrow down to your preferable clique, putting you firmly in control.
Diverse experiences
Online hookup sites do foster diversity as it allows us to meet people outside our social circle. You are more likely to meet people from different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. This is an excellent way of getting exposure and learning about other cultures out there that you probably wouldn’t have interacted with in a typical setup.
Safer
Hooking up online is safer. You can easily take up safety precautions before physically meeting someone. You can look further about your persons of interest; you can also withdraw or politely back out at the safety of your own home.
Cost-effective
It cannot be overemphasized how using these hookup sites is cost-effective. You will spend less money by only hooking up and going to dates that are worth it. Online sites have made it easier for the younger generations to hook up without any financial strains.
Improved features/user experience
Most of these platforms are getting closer to mirroring reality; features such as inbuilt video and voice calls, live streams, and other virtual aspects are incorporated. These features enhance your experience and compensate for face-to-face interactions.
Flexible
Flexibility and convenience are some of the underrated aspects of using these sites. These sites are easily accessed either on a phone or a desktop. You also get to set the pace of your interaction/relationship, and there are no social obligations. There are no geographical limitations in using most of these platforms. Access to both your local space and a more comprehensive global pool is guaranteed.
Time-saving
Online sites are precious in that they are time-saving. For people caught up in hectic schedules, full-time businesses, and busy jobs, online sites are heaven-sent. You get to save time on dates and physical meet-ups that otherwise would have interfered with your schedule.
Narrows down your preference
It is easier to meet like-minded people on online hookup sites than relying on your social circle. This can be attributed to the fact that you get to meet more people. The ability to specify your interests, beliefs, and what you’re looking for increases your likelihood of meeting the perfect match.
Fosters honesty
Online platforms foster honesty as people are more likely to be open about whatever they are looking for. Social stigma, uncertainties, and lack of openness get filtered out of the equation. Shy people and introverts can freely express themselves without succumbing to social pressures.
The use of online hookups has now become socially acceptable to interact with and meet new people. It is an exciting endeavor where negative past experiences and insecurities are taken away.
Some of the drawbacks of using these sites include:
You are bombarded with an overwhelming number of people that you can interact with. Without an actual goal in mind, you are likely to get stuck in the searching phase that most people get sucked into.
Matching and finding the right people is usually a hustle and may be difficult for some people. There’s also a possibility of overlooking the right people by some algorithms used by these sites.
Online hookup sites are generally limited when it comes to the broader scale of real human interaction. Activities such as touching are not possible. This provides more of an artificial approach towards them.
These hookup sites also breed unrealistic expectations and fantasies that may not reflect reality. Dangers of the unknown such as trolling, mockery, and other mishaps are familiar with online sites.
Some of the ways to keep safe and optimize your interactions when using these sites include:
Avoid interacting with suspicious profiles or someone you don’t have enough information about.
Block and report these suspicious profiles.
Do not share your personal information such as bank information, account passwords, or social security number.
Always meet with your date in a public place, especially on the first two or three meetings.
Stick to what you’re comfortable with, and always trust your instincts.
Let your family and close friends be aware of your online presence in terms of who you are talking to/meeting.
Propose a video chat before physically meeting the person you are interacting with to avoid getting catfished.
Conclusion
Even though using online hookup sites has its cons, the pros indeed make it worthwhile. These sites have continued to make a difference in the modern internet age where traditional means are no longer relevant. There is value to be extracted from them if adequately used. It is important to remember that the use of these sites should be treated as a tool to meet new people for the eventuality of face-to-face interactions.
