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January 7, 2025 — In a world where online dating apps have become the go-to platform for romantic connections, new research suggests they may be harming the body image, mental health, and overall well-being of Australians. As the summer season approaches and the familiar anxiety about achieving the “beach body” returns, the impact of these apps has raised alarm.
Flinders University researchers, led by Ph.D. candidate Zac Bowman, recently reviewed data from 45 studies conducted between 2016 and 2023. Their findings shed light on the negative consequences of dating app usage, particularly among young Australians. The systematic review, published in Computers in Human Behavior, reveals disturbing links between dating app use and poor body image, as well as negative mental health outcomes.
“Over 85% of the studies we reviewed identified a significant connection between dating app use and poor body image,” Bowman explained. “Nearly 50% also found a strong association with negative mental health outcomes, such as increased anxiety and depression.”
The review, titled “Dating Apps and Their Relationship with Body Image, Mental Health, and Well-Being: A Systematic Review,” found that dating apps, which have a total of 337 million users worldwide, predominantly target people aged 18 to 29 — a group already vulnerable to mental health struggles.
The negative effects outlined in the research include increased rates of disordered eating, unhealthy weight-control behaviors (such as steroid use, vomiting, and laxative abuse), and poorer self-esteem. Many users also reported heightened levels of anxiety and depression, directly linked to the pressures of meeting societal beauty standards often exacerbated by dating app culture.
“Dating apps have undoubtedly become a significant part of the modern dating landscape,” said Bowman. “But their role in perpetuating unrealistic body standards and fostering mental health issues cannot be ignored. We need protections to reduce their negative impact, particularly on young Australians who use these platforms in search of a partner.”
The review highlighted that a staggering 48.9% of the studies reviewed focused on body image issues, while over 60% examined the broader effects on mental health and well-being. The researchers argue that the prevalence of visual content and the emphasis on appearance-based profiles are major contributors to the body image concerns that plague users.
Senior author Professor Drummond emphasized the urgent need for regulation to protect users, particularly younger adults, who are the primary demographic. “Younger users are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, and dating apps can exacerbate these struggles. Regulations such as usage restrictions and time limits should be a priority to safeguard their well-being.”
Bowman also urged developers to rethink the way dating apps function, particularly the focus on appearance-driven profiles. “There’s a real need for developers to reduce the emphasis on visual content, combat online discrimination and abuse, and promote healthier, more meaningful engagement within these platforms,” he said.
The findings come as mental health concerns continue to rise across Australia, with young adults facing a range of pressures from social media and dating culture. As the summer season brings more focus to body image and outdoor activities, experts warn that the risks associated with online dating may only increase.
For more information, refer to the study published in Computers in Human Behavior by Zac Bowman and colleagues: “Dating apps and their relationship with body image, mental health and well-being: A systematic review” (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2024.108515.
