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The Social Demography of Internet Dating in the United States

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  • Jessica M. Sautter
  • Rebecca M. Tippett
  • S. Philip Morgan

Abstract

Objective. The objective of this article is to identify the sociodemographic correlates of Internet dating net of selective processes that determine who is “at risk.” We also examine the role of computer literacy, social networks, and attitudes toward Internet dating among single Internet users. Methods. We use multivariate logistic regression to analyze 3,215 respondents from the first nationally representative U.S. survey of Internet dating. Results. Sociodemographic factors have strong effects on Internet access and single status but weak effects on use of Internet dating services once the sample is conditioned on these factors. For this “at‐risk” subpopulation, computer literacy and social networks strongly influence the likelihood of Internet dating. Conclusions. Internet dating is a common mate selection strategy among the highly selective subpopulation of single Internet users and may continue to grow through social networks. Material and virtual elements of the digital divide have direct and indirect effects on Internet dating.

Suggested Citation

  • Jessica M. Sautter & Rebecca M. Tippett & S. Philip Morgan, 2010. "The Social Demography of Internet Dating in the United States," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 91(2), pages 554-575, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:91:y:2010:i:2:p:554-575
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-6237.2010.00707.x
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    1. repec:pri:cpanda:wp17%20-%20dimaggio,%20hargittai,%20neuman,%20robinson is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Nicole Zillien & Eszter Hargittai, 2009. "Digital Distinction: Status‐Specific Types of Internet Usage," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 90(2), pages 274-291, June.
    3. Paul DiMaggio & Eszter Hargittai & W. Russell Neuman & John P. Robinson, 2001. "Social Implications of the Internet," Working Papers 159, Princeton University, Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Center for Arts and Cultural Policy Studies..
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    1. repec:plo:pone00:0194277 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Richard Lampard, 2020. "Meeting Online or Offline? Patterns and Trends for Co-Resident Couples in Early 21st-Century Britain," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 25(4), pages 589-608, December.
    3. Zhang, Jiaping & Yan, Qing & Guo, Wenxin & Gong, Xiaomei & Cheng, Mingwang & Yu, Ning, 2020. "Rainbow over the Internet: How Internet use curtails homophobia in China," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 62(C).

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