Kennedy Cambra-Cho | Curation of Self: The Female Image in Modern Matchmaking

 
In part, as a result of globalization, mobile dating applications have solidified themselves in recent years as the primary tool in which individuals seek intimate relationship. The extensive freedom these mobile dating applications provide to users in creating their online selves would imply that users are unhindered in their representation however, this assumption is wrong.
This paper looks at how women present themselves using mobile dating applications when searching for a male companion and the resulting consequences of these actions. The focus demographic of this paper is single heterosexuals using mobile dating apps. The terms ‘dating’ and ‘courtship’ will be used interchangeably; in this context both refer to the active pursuit of intimate relationships.
Compared to their precursors (online dating websites), dating applications do not place compatibility as paramount. Instead, applications market their match making processes as efficient and convenient for users. This strategy highlights the market mentality of contemporary dating applications where users are encouraged to market themselves as products. In order to be successful, female users perform gender in such a way that not only uphold but also strengthens traditional heteronormative stereotypes.
Users’ profile images act as the focal point for today’s popular dating apps. Because dating applications do not place emphasis on curated matching, where users are matched based on compatibility, the filtration process is passed down to the user. This makes the first impression essential; when constructing user profiles, one must navigate how they wish to be perceived and evaluated by other users. This process begins with choosing a profile picture.