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An Exploratory Study of Incels' Dating App Experiences, Mental Health, and Relational Well-Being
Brandon Sparks1, Alexandra M Zidenberg2, Mark E Olver3
1Department of Psychology, Kingston University.
Journal of Sex Research
|September 7, 2023
Summary
This study explored the experiences of incels (involuntarily celibate) and non-incels. Incels reported more depression, rejection sensitivity, and insecure attachment, alongside fewer dating app successes, highlighting potential links between online dating and frustration.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Online Behavior
Background:
- Incel research often focuses on forums, lacking individual experience insights.
- Understanding incel frustration and rejection responses is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dating app experiences and psychological well-being of incels compared to non-incels.
- To identify factors contributing to incel frustration and their responses to rejection.
Main Methods:
- Online study involving 38 incels and 107 non-incel males recruited via Reddit and institutional forums.
- Participants completed questionnaires on dating app use, mental health, and relational well-being.
Main Results:
- Incels reported higher depressive symptoms, rejection sensitivity, and insecure attachment.
- Incels had lower perceived popularity and fewer dating app matches and outcomes despite liberal strategies.
- Differences were linked to perceived popularity, influencing incels' mate attraction efforts.
Conclusions:
- Dating apps may play a significant role in incels' mating frustrations and the manifestation of their distress.
- Findings offer insights into incel discourse and inform potential treatment strategies for self-identified incels.
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