Modern online dating: how user expectations have changed

Online dating has long ceased to be a novelty. Today, it is difficult to find someone who has never met someone online. At first, it was casual encounters on forums and social networks, then a targeted search for partners in special apps. Over the years, not only has the format of dating changed, but so have users’ expectations. Previously, they often relied on “chance”, and a beautiful photo and a few short phrases in a profile were enough to start a conversation. Today, users have become more discerning and conscious — they know exactly who they want to meet and why. And it is they who dictate the rules of online dating, not app developers.

What users expect in 2025

The main difference between today’s audience is a more conscious approach to choosing both a dating platform and a partner. People are no longer interested in just swiping; they want the acquaintance to continue in real life.

Here are the key expectations of modern users:

  • Authenticity. People want to see a real person in front of them, with their pros and cons. Photos that have been retouched beyond recognition are no longer attractive; on the contrary, they are repulsive. That is why developers are increasingly introducing the ability to see the other person live, for example, through video. This approach helps to avoid unpleasant surprises and mismatches between expectations and reality.
  • Quick transition to live communication. The pace of life has accelerated, and users no longer want to spend weeks chatting online, trying to figure out whether it is worth meeting in real life. More and more people are communicating via video to immediately assess how comfortable they are with each other and whether there is that special “chemistry”.
  • Simplicity. Users are tired of filling out questionnaires and don’t want to spend a lot of time creating a profile. That’s why services with the simplest possible interface are gaining popularity, where all you need to do to start communicating is press the “Start” button.
  • Security. People expect high-quality moderation and protection of personal data. This is a basic standard without which users do not want to stay on the platform. They want to be sure that their conversations are private, that their personal information is not used by third-party services, and that the risk of encountering fakes or bots is reduced to zero.

Video chats can meet all these expectations. And while the first chat roulettes were mainly used just to have fun, today such platforms are a full-fledged tool for finding a soul mate.

Why users choose video chats

The popularity of such services is a natural response to new needs. Today, people are less and less trusting of profiles that look too perfect. No one wants to waste their time communicating with fakes or people who are simply trying to pass off their desires as reality. The video format allows you to weed out such users in literally a few seconds. Platform moderators are interested in keeping them safe and comfortable. Therefore, they carefully monitor the atmosphere within and block anyone who violates the rules.

In addition, online video chats save time. There is no need to spend days on correspondence that may turn out to be useless. Most often, a short video conversation is enough to understand whether you want to continue communicating. After all, you see the person as they really are, without filters or masks. And while you can take time to “think” when writing, in video chats everything happens here and now. And you don’t have to guess the mood of the other person based on their writing style and emojis. Here, you can see their facial expressions, intonation, and gestures. And you can easily understand whether the person is interested in communicating or just keeping the conversation going out of politeness.

Another reason to use random video chat is the absence of swipes. More and more people are saying that they are tired of this format of dating. And this is not surprising, because sometimes all your free time is spent on swipes, and there is no time left to communicate. There is even a phenomenon known as the Netflix effect. Users endlessly scroll through profiles, trying to find the perfect candidate. And in the end, they never decide to start communicating with someone, because they are sure that somewhere out there on the internet there is someone better. In Kamchatka, communication begins immediately after connecting. The system selects conversation partners itself, and does so randomly. It is simply impossible to predict who will be on the other side of the screen. Therefore, in video chats, you can meet people you would never have met in real life or on the internet.

Platforms that deserve your attention

LuckyCrush is an online video chat that attracts users with its simplicity. There are no complicated settings: the interface is as intuitive as possible, and even a beginner can figure out how everything works. The platform allows you to choose the gender of your conversation partner and the language for comfortable communication. And if you don’t like the person, you can just click the “Next” button and the system will connect you with a new conversation partner in just a few seconds.

CooMeet.chat differs from LuckyCrushLive in that it has a gender filter, thanks to which men only communicate with women and vice versa. So if you’re interested in romantic encounters, this platform is what you need. In addition, every girl here must register and confirm her details. Therefore, the risk of encountering a fake or a bot is zero.

CooMeet.chat has other features that make communication more comfortable. For example, you can choose the language of communication and use the message translator if you decide to chat with a foreigner. Another interesting feature is Stories, which works the same way as on Instagram. You can record short videos or upload photos so that users can learn more about you before chatting. You can also view other people’s Stories. CooMeet.chat can be used on both a computer and a phone — in addition to the desktop version, there are convenient mobile apps for iOS and Android.

A new era of online dating

Modern dating apps are creating a new environment — one that is safer and more “lively”. The days when video chats were used by fakes and freaks are gradually becoming a thing of the past. Today, it is quite possible to find a soul mate on such platforms. The main thing is to be open to new acquaintances and not forget that on the other side of the screen are real people, not soulless avatars.

How to Build Social Relations: An Essay

Human beings are inherently social creatures. From the early days of civilization, people have sought connection and companionship. Social relationships are the threads that bind societies, support mental well-being, and enable personal and professional growth. In a world that is increasingly digital and fast-paced, building and maintaining meaningful social relations is more important—and sometimes more challenging—than ever before. This essay explores the key principles, approaches, and benefits of building strong social relationships.

Photo by Askar Abayev on Pexels.com

Understanding the Value of Social Relations

Social relationships encompass friendships, family ties, community bonds, and professional networks. These relationships fulfill emotional needs such as love, acceptance, and validation. They also play a critical role in reducing stress, combating loneliness, and improving overall health. Studies in psychology and sociology consistently highlight that people with strong social connections live longer, experience fewer health problems, and show greater resilience during times of crisis.


Principles for Building Social Relations

  1. Mutual Respect and Empathy
    The cornerstone of any healthy relationship is mutual respect. Empathy—the ability to understand and share the feelings of others—deepens this respect. By placing ourselves in others’ shoes and validating their experiences, we create a sense of trust and emotional safety.
  2. Effective Communication
    Clear, honest, and active communication is crucial. Listening attentively, expressing thoughts openly, and providing constructive feedback help prevent misunderstandings and strengthen bonds. Good communication is not just about talking; it is about listening and responding thoughtfully.
  3. Trust and Reliability
    Trust takes time to build but can be lost in moments. Being reliable—keeping promises, being consistent, and showing integrity—fosters trust in any relationship. Trust creates a solid foundation for openness and collaboration.
  4. Shared Interests and Values
    While differences can enrich relationships, shared interests and values often serve as bonding agents. Whether it’s a mutual love for art, similar professional goals, or aligned worldviews, common ground helps in forming lasting connections.
  5. Time and Effort
    Relationships don’t thrive by accident. They require intentional effort. Making time to meet, check in, celebrate milestones, or support someone in need shows that the relationship matters. In the digital age, even a message or a video call can reinforce social bonds.

Approaches to Strengthen Social Relations

  • Engage in Community Activities: Participating in clubs, volunteering, or attending social events introduces people with similar interests and promotes a sense of belonging.
  • Practice Kindness and Generosity: Small acts of kindness—offering help, giving compliments, or sharing resources—can have a profound impact on relationships.
  • Be Open-Minded and Accepting: No two individuals are alike. Embracing differences and avoiding judgment help create inclusive, respectful relationships.
  • Resolve Conflicts Constructively: Conflicts are natural in any relationship. The key is to address them calmly, listen to all sides, and seek mutually beneficial solutions.

Challenges in Building Social Relations

Despite the benefits, building social relationships comes with challenges. Social anxiety, cultural differences, lack of time, or past experiences can inhibit individuals from forming new bonds. Additionally, digital communication, while convenient, sometimes lacks the emotional depth of face-to-face interactions. Overcoming these challenges requires courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to be vulnerable.


The Role of Social Relations in Personal and Societal Well-being

Strong social relationships contribute not only to individual well-being but also to societal harmony. Communities with healthy social ties tend to be safer, more inclusive, and better able to solve common problems. At the workplace, good interpersonal relations improve teamwork, productivity, and job satisfaction.


Conclusion

Building social relations is a lifelong journey that requires effort, patience, and sincerity. It begins with self-awareness and extends to empathy and mutual respect. Whether through casual friendships or deep family ties, strong social relationships are vital for emotional fulfillment and societal cohesion. In a world that often emphasizes individual success, we must remember that true well-being lies not just in what we achieve alone but in the connections we nurture with others. Investing in relationships is, ultimately, investing in a more humane and connected world.

The Art of Giving Compliments: Cultivating Positivity and Connection

Daily writing prompt
What was the best compliment you’ve received?

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

In the tapestry of human interaction, compliments serve as the threads that weave bonds of positivity, appreciation, and connection. The art of giving compliments transcends mere flattery; it reflects a genuine expression of admiration, acknowledgment, and affirmation. Whether conveyed through words, gestures, or actions, compliments possess the remarkable ability to uplift spirits, enhance self-esteem, and foster meaningful relationships. In this essay, we delve into the nuances of giving compliments, exploring its significance, impact, and the artistry behind its delivery.

The Significance of Compliments: Compliments function as emotional currency, enriching the fabric of social interactions with warmth and sincerity. They hold the power to brighten someone’s day, instill confidence, and reinforce positive behaviors. A well-timed compliment can serve as a beacon of encouragement, guiding individuals through moments of self-doubt or adversity. Moreover, compliments contribute to a culture of appreciation, fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and respected.

Impact on Self-Esteem: One of the most profound effects of compliments lies in their ability to bolster self-esteem. When delivered authentically, compliments validate individuals’ talents, efforts, and intrinsic worth. They serve as mirrors, reflecting back the qualities and strengths that may sometimes go unnoticed. This validation fosters a sense of belonging and self-assurance, empowering individuals to embrace their unique attributes with pride and confidence. Moreover, consistent positive feedback through compliments can help individuals develop a more resilient self-concept, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and optimism.

Building Relationships: Compliments serve as building blocks for strong, enduring relationships. Whether in personal or professional settings, expressing genuine admiration and appreciation strengthens bonds between individuals. By acknowledging others’ contributions, talents, and virtues, compliments create a sense of mutual respect and goodwill. They deepen connections, fostering an atmosphere of trust, empathy, and reciprocity. Moreover, compliments pave the way for open communication and collaboration, laying the groundwork for meaningful partnerships and friendships.

The Artistry of Giving Compliments: The art of giving compliments lies not only in the words spoken but also in the sincerity, timing, and delivery. Authenticity is paramount; compliments should stem from genuine admiration and appreciation rather than ulterior motives. Additionally, specificity enhances the impact of compliments, as it demonstrates attentiveness and thoughtfulness. Instead of generic praise, tailored compliments that highlight individuals’ unique qualities or accomplishments resonate more deeply. Moreover, the timing and context of compliments play a crucial role. Whether in public or private settings, offering compliments in a manner that feels comfortable and respectful to the recipient is essential.

Cultural Considerations: It’s important to recognize that cultural norms and preferences regarding compliments may vary. While some cultures embrace effusive praise, others may value modesty and understatement. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances is crucial when giving compliments across diverse contexts. Additionally, being mindful of individual preferences and comfort levels ensures that compliments are received positively and authentically.

Conclusion: In a world often fraught with negativity and criticism, compliments serve as beacons of light, illuminating the inherent goodness and beauty in others. The art of giving compliments transcends mere words; it embodies a spirit of kindness, empathy, and appreciation. As we cultivate the habit of offering genuine compliments, we contribute to a culture of positivity, connection, and upliftment. In celebrating others’ strengths and virtues, we enrich not only their lives but also our own, fostering a ripple effect of positivity that reverberates through our relationships and communities.

References

Dehalwar, K. (2024, March 18). Art of giving compliments: Spreading positivity one word at a time. Track2Training. https://track2training.com/2024/03/18/art-of-giving-compliments-spreading-positivity-one-word-at-a-time/

Jasrial, D., Yunita, W., Sukma, B., & Anggaira, A. S. (2021). Appreciating Students’ Responses: Verbal and Non-Verbal Compliments Used by English Teachers in Classroom. Pedagogy: Journal of English Language Teaching9(2), 165-176.

Lickorish, W. R. (1997). An introduction to knot theory (Vol. 175). Springer Science & Business Media.