Dating apps: how to look after yourself and handle rejection

Research shows rejection is common on dating apps — a 2025 study found about 80% of profiles were rejected in a simulated swiping task and other analyses show only a small share of shown profiles lead to a conversation — and many users report online sexual harassment and misrepresentation.

Dating apps see a surge in new users around the New Year. They can lead to long-term relationships for some, but research also documents frequent rejection, misrepresentation and online sexual harassment. The material below summarises findings from recent studies and common patterns reported by users. Key findings: - A 2025 experimental swiping study reported that participants rejected about 80% of profiles on average. - Analysis of dating app data has found that only a very small share of shown profiles progress to conversation or an exchange of contact details (for example, one analysis reported about 1 in 200 shown profiles led to a conversation). - Research cited by the Australian Institute of Criminology found many users report online sexual harassment and other forms of online sexual violence. - Studies and surveys also document frequent misrepresentation, including profile embellishment and cases of people presenting false identities. Summary: These findings indicate many users will encounter rejection, unclear endings to conversations, and occasional harmful behaviours when using dating apps. Reported responses include emotional strain and, in research, people taking breaks or limiting their use; Undetermined at this time.