Swipe Right: Dating Website and App Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men

AIDS Behav. 2018 Apr;22(4):1265-1272. doi: 10.1007/s10461-017-1882-7.

Abstract

This study explored the frequency of dating website and app usage among MSM to understand sub-group differences in use. Web-based survey data (N = 3105) were analyzed to assess the use of dating websites and apps. More than half (55.7%) of MSM in this sample were frequent users of dating websites and apps. Two-thirds (66.7%) of frequent users had casual partners only in the past 12 months and reported a high average number of casual sexual partners in the past 12 months (Mdn = 5.0) compared to never users (Mdn = 0.0; χ 2(2) = 734.94, adj. p < .001). The most frequently used dating website or app was Grindr, with 60.2% of the sample reporting some or frequent use. Adam4Adam (23.5%), Jack'd (18.9%) and Scruff (18.7%) were also frequently used. Dating websites and apps may be effective channels to reach a diverse group of MSM with HIV prevention messages.

Keywords: Dating apps; Gay; HIV prevention; MSM; Online.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology
  • Homosexuality, Male / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mobile Applications*
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult