In today’s digital world, it's no secret that dating apps have become the practical way to find a partner. This is especially true in countries like the U.A.E, which is home to many expats. As users behind the screens, we are able to craft our personas to show the ideal version of ourselves.
It seems that both genders, who have been using these apps, depend on the reactions they anticipate from their viewers (Chamourian, 2017). Using these standards as guides, people craft profiles on dating apps and then carry their fabricated attitudes and demeanor into the real world.
Erving Goffman believed that we are all actors playing different roles depending on the situation we are in and the impression we hope to give. As chameleons, we carefully curate our clothing choices and our demeanor to present a certain version of ourselves.
So how much of what we are presenting is actually authentic on dating apps like Bumble ?
How does the Bumble app's design affect identity performance, self-presentation, and communication?
If young Arab adults used social media to challenge social and cultural norms in the U.A.E and elsewhere (Zaid et. al, 2017), how possible is it to present their true selves, far from societies’ expectations or gendered stereotypes?
If you're curious to find out the answers to these questions, stay tuned for the full blog post coming soon!
