Do we chat? Motivation for using dating apps in LGB community

Abstract

Dating apps provide a new context to experience affective-sexual relationships, particularly among the lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) community. Therefore, the use of dating applications is analyzed among LGB people, compared to heterosexual people, also evaluating the gender differences in the use and variables such as the value given to sexuality and sensuality, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. In total, 185 people participated (65.4% women and 34.6% men) with an average age of 29.15 years (SD= 6.91), self-identifying 44.3% as heterosexual and 55.7% as part of the LGB community. In general, LGB participants use dating apps more and more frequently than heterosexual participants. Within the group, men report higher use than women and, the app users show higher self-esteem and the use of sex to avoid emotional distress. Given these differences, as well as the existence of psychological indicators related to risk, it seems necessary to include this context of sexual interaction in preventive strategies and clinical interventions, from an inclusive approach and gender perspective.