Methodology

The direct observation of users on Tinder and Bumble creates a dilemma as it would consist of creating a profile and matching with these users. This act attracts users under false pretences and is immoral and unethical. In order to combat these immoral practices and still get accounts on user interface, individual interviews were performed. These interviews were performed through text messages and Zoom with leading questions to frame the interview around user interface, gender identity, and how those with different identities cultivate desire through the app. Due to COVID-19 restraints, the wide envelope of gender identities that people associate with was not accessed, yet the four (4) interviews that took place opened questions about the relations of user interfaces to subtopics such as disability and how they navigate that while building relations through dating apps. User testimonies from various online forums and blogs were used to supplement the lack of participant observation. The data from both the interviews and the user testimonies were compiled and analyzed to then extract the differing experiences of different gender identities and how the designs of these apps contribute to these experiences.