It takes two to tango: A directed two-mode network approach to desirability on a mobile dating app.
Level 4 - case-series / case-control
Level 4 by design analogy (cross-sectional observational digital trace analysis, non-clinical).
PubMed 40700377 · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0327477
What was done
Researchers analyzed digital trace data from a Czech mobile dating app by constructing directed two-mode networks. Nodes represented individual users, ties represented expressions of interest ("swipes" or messages), and desirability was defined by the number of incoming swipes each node received. Network measures and conditional uniform graph tests extended to directed two-mode networks were used to assess hierarchy and desirability homophily.
What was found
The abstract does not provide exact numerical values, effect sizes, or participant numbers. Network structure was found to be hierarchical, with women in an advantageous position due to an uneven gender ratio and substantially higher desirability. Men pursued women more desirable than themselves, whereas reciprocated contacts were comparatively more homophilic.
Why it matters
These findings suggest that partner similarity in desirability arises from downstream selection processes (such as rejection and mutual filtering) rather than an initial preference for similar partners.
Limits
The abstract omits sample size, observation timeframe, and numerical effect sizes. Findings reflect a single dating app in the Czech Republic and may not generalize across different platforms, demographic populations, or post-contact real-world relationship outcomes.
Cited by
- context On dating apps, women swipe right (yes) on approximately 5% of male profiles, whereas men swipe right on approximately 50% of profiles.