Swipe right or left? Study confirms that looks rule dating apps

Dating apps are designed for rapid decision-making, with users swiping left or right in mere seconds.

The age-old saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” may hold true in many aspects of life, but in the world of online dating, appearances reign supreme. While personality, humour, and intelligence may influence long-term compatibility, a new study published in Computers in Human Behavior Reports reveals that first impressions on dating apps are overwhelmingly based on physical attractiveness. Simply put, if you’re struggling to get matches, your profile pictures may be to blame.

The power of looks

Dating apps are designed for rapid decision-making, with users swiping left or right in mere seconds. Despite the emphasis on crafting the perfect bio or showcasing wit in a profile description, the reality is that visuals dominate the selection process. This study, which analysed 445 dating app users in Germany aged 18 to 35, confirmed that attractiveness plays a decisive role in determining whether someone gets swiped right.

According to the findings, a person deemed physically attractive had a 20% higher chance of being selected, whereas intelligence increased the odds by a mere 2%. This suggests that while qualities like personality and intellect may contribute to long-term interest, they do little to influence initial attraction in the digital dating world.

Men and women value looks equally

A surprising revelation from the study challenges traditional stereotypes about dating preferences. It’s often assumed that men prioritise physical appearance while women focus on personality, career, or intelligence. However, the research found no significant difference between genders—both men and women prioritised attractiveness over other qualities when making their initial selection.

Even height, which has long been thought to be a crucial factor for women, held little significance when considered independently of attractiveness. This finding reshapes conventional beliefs about dating dynamics, highlighting that both men and women are equally visual in their approach to selecting potential matches.

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The harsh reality of online dating

While personality and intelligence may play a crucial role in sustaining a relationship, they cannot come into play if the initial swipe never happens.

For those who believe a clever bio or an interesting career will do the heavy lifting, the study suggests otherwise. Without an appealing profile picture, potential matches may never even take the time to read your details. While personality and intelligence may play a crucial role in sustaining a relationship, they cannot come into play if the initial swipe never happens.

This realisation can be disheartening for many, leading some to dismiss dating apps as superficial platforms that reduce human connection to a mere glance. However, instead of abandoning the apps altogether, researchers suggest a more strategic approach to profile curation.

How to improve your chances

The study offers a practical solution: optimise your profile photos. High-quality images significantly boost the likelihood of getting matches, and researchers recommend seeking input from friends to choose the most flattering pictures. A well-curated selection of images can make a substantial difference, ensuring you present yourself in the best possible light.

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In a digital dating landscape driven by first impressions, taking profile pictures seriously isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.