A type of dating service that is becoming more and more popular by the minute is the niche online dating service. As the name implies, these are online dating websites that cater to a specific market by establishing a common trait or interest. The trait or interest around which the sites revolve can range anywhere from religion, gender preferences, and race, to hobby, social and financial status, political beliefs, and tons more. This article discusses the common arguments for and against niche dating service websites, as well as one of the subcategories thereof – niche matchmaking sites.
Diversity vs. homogeneity
This is the most common argument raised by those who are for and against niche dating websites. According to those on the anti group, niche dating services defeat the purpose of going on the world wide web to look for love. This is because even though they remove the geographical limitations, they still limit their options according to the “niche” that the site caters to. This prevents them from exploring other cultures and beliefs, and thus from getting the most out of the whole online dating experience.
But for those who subscribe to niche dating services, these websites are far from limiting or restrictive. Instead, they help “picky” singles save time and effort by providing venues where people with common interests and backgrounds meet and communicate with each other. As for the issues of cultures and beliefs, pro-niche dating singles say that cultural differences often come in the way of relationships. So by avoiding or minimizing cultural differences and variety in beliefs, there is a greater possibility of them finding someone whom they’re totally in tune with.
Niche matchmaking sites
One way of understanding niche matchmaking sites is to look at them as “multi-niche” dating services. Why? Because aside from having a general common category like religion (for Christians or Muslims only) or social and financial status (exclusive to those with reported incomes of above $150,000), these websites match users according to other factors such as musical interests, activities, and other categories common to two parties. Through niche matchmaking sites, there is assumed to be higher compatibility rates because the concerned parties share more things in common.
Regardless of whether niche dating services and niche matchmaking sites help love-seeking singles or limit their choices, having them as an online dating option still helps those looking for love through the Internet. By having more choices and options, users can find the specific dating service that best caters to their specific needs.