Is Online Dating a Good or Bad Thing For the LGBTQ Community?

When weighing up the pros and cons of joining a dating service, one undeniable positive is the way these digital outlets have been embraced by marginalized communities.

This is particularly the case for LGBTQ people. For those individuals who have previously found their choice of socializing outlets far more restricted than their straight counterparts, going online to connect with potential partners is so convenient – and safe. Here we assess the main pros and cons of online dating where LGBTQ people are concerned. 

Ability to find compatible partners

According to dating specialists from LesbieMates, the online environment presents a secure environment where newcomers to any of the websites catering for LGBTQ singles will always be made to feel welcome.

Algorithms built into these sites can ingather details from registration forms to be matched with the data supplied by existing site members – covering everything from their location to the type of partner they’re keen to connect with – and suggest appropriate matches instantly. This ability to provide compatible dates ‘up front’ cuts out a lot of unnecessary time-wasting, when site users have tried interacting with unsuitable singles.

Choice of dating resources

Perhaps the most obvious aspect of identifying as LGBTQ is that, like the rainbow that is universally used to signify this community, it can’t be defined by the same limited parameters as ‘straight dating.’ The analogy with a splash of many diverse colors and hues is so appropriate. Whether you’re specifically seeking gay, lesbian, or bisexual partners, all these nuances are catered for within LGBTQ digital dating.

A safe haven for communication

LGBTQ dating services employ secure channels for communication between members, allowing conversations to be conducted in privacy. This atmosphere is ideal for anyone new to this field of dating and might be initially hesitant about revealing too much about their aspirations. It is also perfect for those who are naturally shy or hesitant, and would perhaps lack the confidence to approach potential partners in more ‘traditional’ dating scenarios, like LGBTQ clubs or bars.

The minority of bad apples

As with any other online dating services, there can be the occasional individual who has more unscrupulous motives for signing up. Because it can be relatively straightforward to mock up an email address, it isn’t difficult to create fake profiles. This means that the LGBTQ person a single might think they are developing a sense of chemistry with might not be interested in a real connection.

Perhaps they’re attempting to build trust as a prelude to phishing for sensitive banking information. But if any site user is getting the impression whoever is at the end of the online messaging isn’t genuine, they can block them and swiftly move on.

Over-reliance on the virtual experience

Another issue with LGBTQ dating sites is they can be a ‘victim’ of their success and convenience. When singles who have been used to facing restrictions in terms of socializing opportunities suddenly find themselves in n arena where they can interact with a cross-section of desirable site members, there can be a temptation to remain within this comfort zone.

They might continually make excuses not to take their relationship to the next level and remain virtual friends. But where forging a true bond with another LGBTQ person is concerned, only by arranging face-to-face encounters will any relationship progress to appropriate levels of trust. Only by taking their connection to the next level will any LGBTQ couple have made a success of online dating.

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