Online dating comes with endless swiping, awkward initial conversations, ghosting, catfishing, getting stood up, scams, bot accounts, and many other issues. The current apps don't have a lot of incentive to let people build real-world connections, because their business thrives on selling premium features to get more matches. Most people find this approach of dating exhausting and somewhat intimidating.
Since we started Stych in Bengaluru, we've been frequently receiving requests for dating. Hence in this new initiative of ours, we are trying to focus on real-world interactions, your interests, your values, and personal preferences. Why? Studies have shown that face-to-face meetings and shared interests are the cornerstones of lasting relationships.
References (for the ones curious)
- Mehrabian, A. (1971). Silent Messages. Wadsworth Publishing Company. This book discusses the importance of non-verbal communication cues in human interactions, foundational to understanding face-to-face communication's role in forming connections.
- Aron, A., Norman, C. C., Aron, E. N., McKenna, C., & Heyman, R. E. (2000). Couples' shared participation in novel and arousing activities and experienced relationship quality. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 78(2), 273-284. This study explores how shared activities can enhance relationship satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of common interests in romantic relationships.
- Schwartz, B. (2004). The Paradox of Choice: Why More is Less. Ecco. This book discusses how having too many choices can lead to decision fatigue and the implications of this in various aspects of life, including dating.
- Strubel, J., & Petrie, T. A. (2017). Love me Tinder: Body image and psychosocial functioning among men and women. Body Image, 21, 34-38. This research examines the impact of using swipe-based dating apps on body image and psychosocial functioning, offering insights into the mental health implications of such platforms.
- Tannen, D. (1990). You Just Don’t Understand: Women and Men in Conversation. William Morrow and Company. This book provides insight into gender differences in communication, relevant to understanding relationship dynamics in the context of dating.
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