Digital technology has played a pivotal part in not only connecting singles who are on the hunt for love but also creating strong, lasting relationships – all thanks to an app. 

Besides communication via social media apps, there are specifically created apps to help single people meet others who are looking for a relationship. Whilst there are clear positives to the part digital has played, there are also negatives that have been highlighted. 

Creating safe relationships online is a responsibility all of us share.

A research survey conducted between January and May in 2017 by sexual health and wellbeing charity, Brook, looked at digital technology in their relationships; focusing on subjects such as: 

• Flirting
• Communicating in relationships
• Control, pressure and abuse in relationships
• Breaking up and the post break-up period

Findings from Brook’s research concluded: 

• 94% reported receiving online safety education 
• 63% rated the education as good or very good 
• 72% reported receiving education on relationship skills
• 14% of girls have experienced threats or verbal abuse from partners during a relationship
• 28% of young people say that their ex or their ex’s friends had sent them nasty messages online
• 9.9% had met up with an online contact who was not who they said they were
• 4.9% straight young people had met up with an online contact who was not who they said they were

Although the report was conducted in 2017, it’s clear to see that some of the findings are still evident to this day. Whilst many have found joy connecting with their soulmate online, digital has also allowed users to send abuse and inappropriate content to their counterparts. 

Social media platforms are continuously working hard to prevent such occurrences, but the battle remains.