Behind every swipe: unveiling the effect of racial and gender dynamics on online dating in Singapore

Abstract

Online Dating Applications (ODAs) have reshaped modern romantic interactions and remain deeply entangled with societal norms, perpetuating racial and gender biases. This qualitative study examines how gender and racial identities intersect to shape OD experiences in Singapore, a multicultural society grappling with evolving demographic challenges.

Through interviews with Chinese, Malay, and Indian youths, findings reveal how ODAs reinforce existing social structures rather than dismantle them. Gendered expectations create distinct challenges as males express frustration over unreciprocated courtship efforts, while females receive unsolicited advances and additional emotional labour. Racial dynamics further complicate interactions, as normalised racial “preferences” overtly and covertly discriminate against minorities from accessing interracial connections. Considering intersectionality, Malay women experience compounded exclusion on ODAs due to racial and religious barriers. While some enjoy benefits of ODAs, our study advocates for more inclusive online spaces to address biases and foster meaningful cross-cultural connections in Singapore’s unique, evolving dating landscape.