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Please love me : an integrated model of online dating and mental well-being in times of COVID-19

Spitzer, L. (2022) Please love me : an integrated model of online dating and mental well-being in times of COVID-19.

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Abstract:Background. SARS-CoV-2 has affected social lives and opportunities for romantic encounters, leading to an increase in the popularity of online dating applications (ODA). However, these may impact users’ well-being. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the extent to which ODA use is related to users’ mental well-being and whether this relationship is mediated by self-objectification, socio-cultural attitudes, and/or body dissatisfaction. Method. A secondary analysis of data collected in a cross-sectional survey design was conducted using the existing data of 131 students. The MHC-SF, SOQ, SATAQ-4 were used, followed by a multiple mediation analysis. Results. ODA use was significantly negatively associated with mental well-being, self-objectification, and the internalization of socio-cultural attitudes. Self-objectification was found to have a significant negative indirect effect. Conclusion and Discussion. This study supports that ODA have created an adverse environment that is negatively associated with mental well-being. Empirical support is provided that self-objectification persists as a critical explanatory factor to understand this relationship. These insights enhance the understanding of mental health risks and have the potential to inform ODA providers. The need for future research to examine if these findings are applicable to sexual and gender minorities and People of Color is highlighted.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology MSc (66604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/89376
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