More Feedback, Less Dissatisfaction? Exploring the Impact of Dating App Feedback on Body Dissatisfaction

Abstract

Existing research on mobile dating apps has focused on exploring
the impact of dating apps on body dissatisfaction, but has
largely overlooked which specific experiences of dating app use
impact this dissatisfaction. As such, the underlying mechanisms
at play require further exploration. Drawing upon social comparison
theory and using a sample of 538 dating app users, this
study constructed a model with the aim of clarifying the impact
of dating app feedback on body dissatisfaction, the mediating
role of self-conscious appearance comparison, and the
moderating role of gender. The results indicated a negative
association between dating app feedback and self-conscious
appearance comparison, which in turn was positively associated
with body dissatisfaction; however, gender did not moderate
either of these associations. These findings provide recommendations
which could enhance the dating app user experience.