Virtual speed dating: Utilizing online‐meeting platforms to study initial attraction and relationship formation

There is still much to learn about attraction and relationship formation. Here, we introduce an innovative method that utilizes modern technology to permit large‐scale, observational study of dyadic behavior that may yield new empirical insights into how people choose partners and form relationships...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inPersonal relationships Vol. 31; no. 2; pp. 420 - 444
Main Authors French, Juliana E., Bolton, Lindsay J., Meltzer, Andrea L.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Hoboken, USA Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.06.2024
Subjects
attraction
dyadic behavior
relationship formation
speed dating
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:There is still much to learn about attraction and relationship formation. Here, we introduce an innovative method that utilizes modern technology to permit large‐scale, observational study of dyadic behavior that may yield new empirical insights into how people choose partners and form relationships: virtual speed dating. In doing so, we provide a methodological overview of a recent virtual speed‐dating study that we conducted, and we provide guidance for other scholars who wish to conduct such a study. Not only does virtual speed dating permit a feasible way to conduct large‐scale speed‐dating research and observe dyadic behavior during initial meeting and dating interactions, but it can benefit relationship science in myriad other ways, including the ability to (a) study novel research questions about first‐impression formation, romantic rivalries, and affiliative behaviors, (b) study diverse types of relationships, and (c) increase representation of diverse individuals in relationship science.
Bibliography:Statement of Relevance
Given the increased reliance on technology for relationship formation, we developed a modern method that permits large‐scale, observational study of dyadic behavior during initial meetings and subsequent dating interactions: virtual speed dating. Virtual speed dating promises to yield new insights into attraction and relationship formation and might increase the feasibility of studying diverse relationships. This new method has the potential to help advance knowledge and theory on close relationships.
ISSN:1350-4126
1475-6811
DOI:10.1111/pere.12548