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DATING in the digital age An examination of online hookup culture, relationships and catfishing from the teenage lens.

By Caleb Goss, Holly Bill and Sid Tandel

With the growing prevalence of social media over the past decade, many have turned online in search of connections. Whether they be friendly or romantic, this has become increasingly popular with Generation Z. There are many apps and social media platforms for teenagers and adults alike to find friends, hookups or even love. In this three-part package, the benefits, the dangers and the norms of using online dating platforms are examined.

This package contains visuals symbolizing the anonymity, dangers and insecurities surrounding online dating as a minor. Photos are by Caleb Goss and Holly Bill.

Part 1: The danger of being a minor on grindr

Doe regrets using dating apps while underage.

At age 16, HHS alumni John Doe took a risk; he joined Grindr, a dating app intended for adults 18+. While dating apps require you to include your name on your profile, Doe specifically used dating apps that kept him anonymous as a result of being underage. He does so by using a fake name on apps such as Grinder and Tinder to prevent people from finding out his identity.

PART 2: To Swipe or not to swipe

Students reflect on their dating and relationship experiences with the swipe-based app Yubo.

“Make new friends”

“Find amazing people”

“Chat with your new bff”

The French social networking platform Yubo advertises itself as a way for teenagers to discover like-minded people through “authentic interactions.” When junior Caleb Fox saw an advertisement for the app in 2019, this marketing immediately caught his attention.

Part 3: Chatrooms and predators and grooming, oh my!

Dr. Lora Cantwell is HHS' Mental Health and Student Assistance Counselor, and she addresses the risks and precautions of online dating as a minor.

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