Why internet dating is 'recession-proof'

A new report by CNN on Wednesday (February 25th) outlined the reasons why online dating is the one social activity which has not taken a hit from the recession.

As the economic downturn pushes unemployment figures higher and causes companies to implode, most people are tightening the purse strings and cutting out unnecessary expenses.

While this may include the odd night out or trip to the cinema, what has not changed is that "loneliness is loneliness" and singles want to rectify it, no matter what their financial situation.

The report lists four main reasons why online dating is 'recession-proof', with the first being that it offers the opportunity to open up a world of thousands of potential matches.

As Emily Parker, an editor in New York, tells the news provider: "I was sick of going out every weekend, spending money on drinks, as I made small talk with men who bored or offended me.

"My budget is super-tight, especially since I feel like my job isn't secure. But I didn't want to stop dating, either.

"I joined an online dating site and have met some really cool guys so far. That's more than I can say about the time I spent trolling the bar scene."

Secondly, online dating is described as "totally cost-effective", in the sense that e-mail, instant messaging and phone conversations can give an insight into a potential date.

Rather than wasting money on an expensive dinner or other excursions only to find that there is no connection, people are able to gauge compatibility in a cheap and hassle-free way.

This leads on to the third point, which is that using profile information on a dating site can help to pinpoint potential gold-diggers or members who would demand five-star treatment on a date.

However, this does not mean that an inexpensive date is impossible, as profiles can also give an indication about some shared interests which can be pursued without breaking the bank.

As Jennifer DeChristoforo, a copywriter from Boston, explains to CNN: "Just because times are hard does not mean that being skimpy is acceptable.

"One of my best dates ever was with someone I met online. We went to the Natural History Museum and then had coffee. It was a great day and not expensive in the slightest."

Finally, the report notes pragmatically that after some hard work looking to find a suitable partner, there could be a chance to find someone on a similar financial footing at the end of the road.

This could lead to being "well on the way to shacking up, sharing the bills and merging bank accounts", which would undoubtedly be beneficial in the current climate.