Finding Love in the Black Box: Algorithm Awareness on Dating Apps

IF 4 2区心理学 Q1 PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking Pub Date : 2026-10-07 DOI:10.1177/21522715261492764

Doris Bukman,Liesel L. Sharabi,Elisabeth Timmermans

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Most dating apps use algorithms to match users to one another, but are not fully transparent about how their recommender systems work. In turn, users have varying degrees of awareness of matching algorithms. Unfortunately, little is known about how awareness of algorithmic functioning relates to online dating. This research examined the relationship between algorithm awareness, trust in algorithms, and satisfaction with the quality of matches. A survey was conducted among 500 users of the Dutch dating app Breeze, presented to respondents within the app itself. Relationships were estimated with structural equation modeling. Higher algorithm awareness was associated with more trust in algorithms, which positively related to satisfaction with the quality of matches. This mediated association between awareness and satisfaction with matches suggested that awareness of matching algorithms is associated with better outcomes of dating app use. This research contributes to the limited literature on human–algorithm interaction on dating apps. Overall, the results suggest that algorithm awareness may be a relevant part of the online dating experience.

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在黑盒中寻找爱情：约会软件的算法意识

大多数约会应用都使用算法来为用户配对，但它们的推荐系统的工作方式并不完全透明。反过来，用户对匹配算法有不同程度的认识。不幸的是，人们对算法功能的认识与在线约会的关系知之甚少。本研究考察了算法意识、对算法的信任和对匹配质量的满意度之间的关系。荷兰约会应用Breeze对500名用户进行了一项调查，并在该应用内向受访者展示了调查结果。用结构方程模型估计关系。较高的算法意识与对算法的更多信任相关，这与对匹配质量的满意度呈正相关。这种意识与匹配满意度之间的中介关系表明，对匹配算法的意识与约会应用程序使用的更好结果有关。这项研究对约会应用程序中人类与算法交互的有限文献有所贡献。总的来说，结果表明，算法意识可能是在线约会体验的一个相关部分。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL-

CiteScore

9.60

自引率

3.00%

发文量

123

期刊介绍： Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking is a leading peer-reviewed journal that is recognized for its authoritative research on the social, behavioral, and psychological impacts of contemporary social networking practices. The journal covers a wide range of platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, internet gaming, and e-commerce, and examines how these digital environments shape human interaction and societal norms. For over two decades, this journal has been a pioneering voice in the exploration of social networking and virtual reality, establishing itself as an indispensable resource for professionals and academics in the field. It is particularly celebrated for its swift dissemination of findings through rapid communication articles, alongside comprehensive, in-depth studies that delve into the multifaceted effects of interactive technologies on both individual behavior and broader societal trends. The journal's scope encompasses the full spectrum of impacts—highlighting not only the potential benefits but also the challenges that arise as a result of these technologies. By providing a platform for rigorous research and critical discussions, it fosters a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between technology and human behavior.