Comparison of depression and anxiety levels, self-esteem, and social appearance anxiety of people using online dating applications with people who do not use the applications

The purpose of the research is to investigate the effects of sexual violence related to the use of online dating applications and how these effects are reflected in participants' levels of depression, anxiety, self-esteem and social appearance anxiety. For the research, people (n=91) who used online dating applications (ODA) were reached through websites and social networks using the snowball technique. As a control group, people with no history of ODA use (n=70) were included in the study via the internet. Participants who used ODA scored higher on depression, anxiety, and social appearance anxiety than those who did not. Participants who did not use ODA were found to have higher self-esteem. Additionally, statistically significant differences were found in the levels of depression, anxiety, self-esteem and social appearance anxiety between participants who used online dating applications and were exposed to sexual violence and participants who never used ODA. Our research shows that there is a relationship between the use of ODA and the risk of exposure to sexual violence. It is thought that the use of ODA may also have negative effects on depression, anxiety, self-esteem and social appearance anxiety. It is important to raise awareness about the use of ODA, digital safety and violence. Investigating the types of negative interactions, risks and protective factors that people experience on dating apps will help reduce the negative effects of apps on mental health and help mental health professionals develop intervention strategies.