Navigating Love and Privacy Online: An Expert’s Take on Dating Apps and Modern Connection
A Boston University media science expert discusses how dating apps and social media impact our relationships, privacy, and mental well-being.
By Joela Goga
In today’s world, technology touches nearly every aspect of personal connection, with dating apps and social media platforms redefining how we form, sustain, and perceive relationships. Apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge (among many others) have offered a new way to meet people, while social media enables instant and constant communication. Yet, as these tools reshape our interactions, questions naturally arise about their impact on privacy, mental health, and authenticity. Dr. Katy Coduto, an assistant professor of media science at Boston University’s College of Communication, explores these topics in her research, which examines the complex dynamics of online behavior, privacy concerns, and compulsive social media use.
With a background in media science and brand strategy, Dr. Coduto’s work spans various aspects of digital interaction, from the motivations behind sexting to the risks of technology dependency, and strategies for managing digital privacy. In a recent Reddit Ask Me Anything (AMA), she offered valuable insights into navigating relationships and mental health in an increasingly digital world, empowering users to make informed choices about their online interactions.
How nuanced is the motivation to engage in online dating and sexting?
Is there any data to support claims that on dating apps, a small percentage of men receive the majority of swipes from women, while men tend to swipe on nearly everyone?
Is there any research on how digital behaviors, media choices, or sexting impact the quality of long-distance relationships?
What advice do you have for reducing social media scrolling?
Many people blame social media for declining personal interactions and true connections, as well as promoting arguably negative behaviors. Could you provide insight into these claims? Which negative aspects of social media are supported by evidence, and which may be exaggerated?
What would an ethical, non-harmful dating app look like?
How does a couple’s personal use of social media affect their relationship?
How do dating apps contribute to feelings of insecurity and anxiety?
How does social media scrolling affect people of different ages?
Do companies sell data on users’ dating preferences?
How and when do you talk to your kids about social media safety?
