The Dangers of Online Dating
By Bob Branco
(Originally published in Word Matters, www.ernestdempsey.com)
It seems as though every time we turn around, there is an ad on television about online dating. The ad asks single people to apply on a dating site where they can meet their special someone. Many of these dating sites charge an expensive fee, and we’re supposed to give out as much personal information as possible.
Despite the push for online dating, I still believe that personal contact is the way to meet people. Personality is what counts. When people are communicating with one another on a dating web site, they don’t know any more beyond the written word. Anyone can write what they want, whether it’s true or not. There is no expression to indicate truth or dishonesty.
If I was searching for my significant other, I would want to meet her, talk to her, get to know her, and figure out her strengths and weaknesses. You can’t do that on the computer. I have heard cases where potential couples on a dating site plan to meet, even to the point where they travel hundreds of miles, only to discover that the potential date is a fake or a criminal.
This is not to say that online dating doesn’t work all the time. I know a woman who met her husband that way, and as far as I know, their marriage is very successful. On the other hand, it’s not the method I would recommend. There are too many unknown factors which take the place of personal introduction at a local library, mall, restaurant, Church, or any other place you choose to meet someone.
Online dating has become a popular industry which makes a lot of money, and as long as there are many single people out there who believe there is no other way to find their mates, the industry will continue to grow and grow. Despite all that, the human touch is always the answer. So, why not continue to go about your day, meeting people, and hoping for the best?
