The Illusion of Intimacy: Problems in the World of Online Dating: Problems in the World of Online Dating

by John C. Bridges

Overview

The members of the current generation of "digital guinea pigs" are true social pioneers as they embrace digital technology to create a new realm of mating, dating, and intimacy in America. Ironically, "digital dating" frequently results in an outcome that is exactly opposite to its participants' intended purposes.

The Illusion of Intimacy: Problems in the World of Online Dating is more than a thorough investigation of the realities of modern relationships, many of which begin online—one in five, according to Match.com; the book introduces the reader to some of the natives and industry "users" who make up its clientele. Author John C. Bridges shows how they have adapted to technology to find new interactions, meet new partners, and share new experiences. The research focuses on the dating sites ranked in the top five by actual members of these sites who interviewed with the author to share their personal stories and experiences, all documented by saved emails and text messages.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780313399527
Publisher:	ABC-CLIO, Incorporated
Publication date:	05/15/2012
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	154
File size:	815 KB

About the Author

John C. Bridges, PhD, is a professor, writer, teacher, and speaker.

Table of Contents

Preface ix

1 Introduction 1

2 Profiles, Partners, and Dating Services 9

3 Intimacy and Its Issues 31

4 The Illusion of Intimacy: How Illusion and Fantasy Distort Reality 43

5 Common Problems Owned by Online Dating 65

6 Case Studies from the Online World: When a Match Is … and When It Isn't 105

7 Conclusion 135

About the Data 145

Notes 149

Bibliography 151

Index 153

Editorial Reviews

"Bridges stresses the importance of self-knowledge and emotional resilience in the search for a soul mate. The Illusion of Intimacy can be viewed as an important antidote for the idealistic expectations that millions of people bring to the online search for love with a perfect stranger." - PsycCRITIQUES

From the Publisher