Is the Tinder App Safe for Students? Parent App Guide
Tinder is a Dating App for 18+
- Tinder is a dating app that shows other Tinder users nearby who share similar interests or mutual friends
- Users anonymously swipe right if they’re interested in seeing a user’s profile or they swipe left to pass
- If both users express interest or “swipe right” on each other then those users become a match
- Once a user has been matched with another Tinder user they can start chatting with each other in the app
- Users can post images and messages as "moments," which exist for 24 hours and then disappear
- "Tinder utilizes a network of industry-leading automated and manual moderation and review tools, systems and processes - and invest significant resources - to prevent and remove minors from our app." (Source: Tinder)
- Tinder often uses an age verification system that requires a drivers license or passport to prove that the user is 18 years old or older (Source: Tinder)
What is Tinder?
Tinder is Not Appropriate for Teens
- Tinder is a dating app for adults and is not appropriate for teens under 18
- User's location, pictures and bio are all in one place, which can make it easier for predators to target victims on the app
- The app has a reputation for finding casual “hookups”, rather than friendships or long-term partnerships
- The focus of “swiping right” or “swiping left” on users’ pictures encourages teens to treat dating like a game – or in an impersonal, judgmental, and superficial way
- Teens can become self-criticizing if they begin to judge themselves based on how many “likes” or “swipes” they receive
How Parents Can Keep Teens Safe on Dating Apps
- Teach your teen to never meet a stranger in-person who they met online
- Challenge your teen to make new friends at school, through sports leagues, or at events in your community
- Discuss the age limitations of the Tinder and why it is inappropriate for teens to use
Additional Resources for Parents
Avoiding Strangers & Dangerous Situations Online
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This is great info, thanks for giving me some ideas on how to start a dialogue with my teen!
Sharon M.
Parent VIP Member
Josh's presentation about social media was unbelievably fantastic. Our students learned so much about what kids should and shouldn't be doing. The fact that it is such a thoughtful process made it all worthwhile.
Director of College Advising
Educator Webinar Attendee
This webinar is a very helpful eye-opener on the apps that are popular with my students.
Irene C.
Educator Webinar Attendee
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