What is DBL?

DBL, which in layman's terms is otherwise known as digital body language, is arguably one of, if not the most important things to factor in when dating online. 

This is because a new study by Hinge, which delves into the dating history of Gen Z singles, revealed that 77% of people who use their platform say that DBL reveals a lot about a match's interests and intentions, reaffirming how big a role digital body language plays in dating.

With the iconic term, ‘silence speaks volumes’, it hilights why non verbal communication whether that’s eye contact, a lingering glance or subtle touching of hands, should be ranked higher on singles priority lists - as it is important. 

Fortunately, I have 5 key areas to look out for when dating online to avoid you falling into a meaningless connection!

1. Clear Communication (Intentions) 

With poor communication contributing to over 65% of divorces, it shows how important it is to communicate both during the early ‘talking stages’ of a relationship and also once you’re in one too! 

This is because especially when you’re dating online there are more barriers in place that can hinder a persons communication. 

Whether that be work, slow replies, lack of interest or even ghosting - it is super important to keep your date in loop. As if you don’t they may get fed up and swipe for somebody else, when that could’ve been your soulmate right there. 

So make your intentions clear and make your feelings known.

2. Emotional Vulnerability 

When dating, men in particular don't always feel comfortable when it comes to showing their emotions/ being vulnerable with their date - especially online.

This could be down to a number of reasons, the main one being outdated views on heterosexual males having to be a matcho man, but that’s a story for another day.

However, with reports stating that, 93 percent of daters want to date someone who shows emotional vulnerability, and 61 percent of people surveyed ranking it as a higher priority than attractiveness, income, or height - it shows how important it is to let your guard down just a little when online dating. 

3. Punctuation 

You may be sitting here thinking I left school a thousand years ago so what does punctuation have to do with anything, but believe me when it comes to online dating, international dating or any sort of virtual communication - punctuation is important. 

This is because it’s one of the only ways you are able to set the tone and show some sort of emotions when speaking virtually. 

So saying what you mean, and meaning what you say is crucial. 

4. Truthfulness 

This may seem like an obvious one, but honesty and being truthful is up there when it comes to digital communication. 

Whether that’s whilst you’re talking or setting up your dating profile, it’s important to be honest during all stages and topics, even during sex. 

This is because, 87 percent of singles said they wanted their partners to be honest about sexual topics, even if it might hurt their feelings.

5. Message Consistency 

Finally, with  inconsistency being one of the many dating red flags, it is important that if you’re feeling someone’s vibe to make sure 1. You let them know and 2. You don’t go and ghost them. 

This is because the dating scene is fast pace, especially online, some may even call it speed dating. So you have to make sure you are consistent otherwise you could get ghosted and nobody wants that.

But what do you think, is your digital body language up to scratch - or is more work needed? 

Credits:

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• Statista: https://www.statista.com/topics/12315/online-dating-in-the-united-kingdom/#topicOverview
• Time: https://time.com/6691673/digital-body-language-dating-hinge-gen-z-report/
• Cosmopolitan: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a42006606/emotional-vulnerability-high-priority-for-singles/
• Marcia Mediation: https://marciamediation.co.uk/lack-of-communication-is-one-of-the-lead-causes-of-divorce/ 
• Online Doctor: https://onlinedoctor.superdrug.com/bedroom-honesty-and-dishonesty.html#:~:text=About%2087%20percent%20of%20respondents%20said%20they,even%20if%20it%20might%20hurt%20their%20feelings.&text=55%20percent%20of%20men%20and%20nearly%2045,highly%20rated%20honesty%20as%20a%20key%20component.