Tinder Study Finds Men And Women Misjudge Each Other's Dating App Goals, Creating An 'Assumptions Epidemic.
Dating as a single mother is tough due to societal stigma and juggling responsibilities. A survey by QuackQuack found that 46% of single moms prefer dating apps for their non-judgmental environment. Apps allow upfront disclosure of single-parent status, but trust issues remain. Single mothers often encounter men who either feel obliged to care for them or try to exploit their vulnerability.
Despite these challenges, some single mothers find dating apps preferable to matrimonial websites, which can be overwhelming and involve family too early. Experts like emotional intelligence coach Taylor Elizabeth and psychologist Namrata Jain offer advice.
Take Your Time
Do not rush into dating if you are not ready. It may take days, months, or even years post-heartbreak or divorce to feel comfortable dating again. Reconnecting with your inner self helps you understand yourself on a deeper level. Be selective about who you associate with, and remember that dating you and getting to know your children is a privilege.
Be Upfront
Use your profile to state explicitly who you are and what you want. This increases your chances of finding someone who embraces you for who you are. Being upfront saves time and heartbreak by avoiding connections with individuals not interested in dating single parents.
Set Clear Boundaries
Boundaries are an act of self-protection. Think about the type of relationship you want, how much you want to share, the pace of the relationship, and the types of conversations you want to have. Make a vow to keep these boundaries and express your preferences clearly in an online dating setting. Jain advises not to introduce dates to your children until the relationship is serious.
Trust Your Intuition
Intuition is a powerful tool. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. It’s better to be cautious than to rush into a situation that doesn’t feel right. Time allows for a clearer perspective and can temper disappointments.
Safeguard Your Self-Esteem
Dating can lead to emotional highs and lows, with rejection impacting your self-esteem. Remember, rejection is not a reflection of your intrinsic value; it simply means the match wasn’t right. Treat each interaction as a learning experience to grow in your understanding of what you want in a partner. Jain adds that online dating can be ruthless to single mothers. Seek support from friends and family to protect your emotional well-being.
Green Flags
Look for partners who are flexible, empathetic, honest about their intentions, consistent in their actions and words, and who regard you as a whole person beyond just being a parent.
Red Flags
Be wary of partners who refer to your children as ‘baggage'.
Navigating the world of dating as a single mother presents unique challenges, from balancing multiple responsibilities to overcoming societal stigma. While dating apps offer a non-judgmental platform for many single moms, trust issues and negative experiences remain prevalent.