In the most recent Pew Research poll on dating applications (apps) in 2023, 30% of all adults reported using a dating app, with over 50% of adults under 30 reporting affirmatively. These numbers demonstrate the widespread use of these apps to promote dating. In recent years, dating apps like Bumble have also expanded to help people meet new friends in their community. These dating apps have revolutionized dating, reportedly making it simpler and more accessible. However, downsides have also become apparent, such as issues of social comparison, fears of rejection, and an overabundance of choice, which leads to decision fatigue and an increase in depression and loneliness, especially among heavy users of dating applications. To better understand the influence of dating apps, we will discuss research on their effects and therapeutic implications.
Understanding dating apps can also be nested within a broader discussion of online friendships and relationships, as more people are making friends online, which may or may not translate into in-person friendships. Questions remain about the usefulness and positive aspects of these friendships and how they may or may not influence the development of loneliness.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Identify and understand current landscape of dating apps, including research about the general influence of these apps in terms of dating behavior and mental health well-being.
- Assess risk factors and benefits of online relationships, including non-romantic relationships, and how the relationship quality may compare to other types of friendships.
- Analyze the reasons for the current loneliness epidemic and ways that online and in-person events and types of contact can address issues of loneliness.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: The Evolution of Online Relationships
- Historical development of online communication and dating platforms
- Changes in how people form and maintain relationships
- The growing role of technology in interpersonal connection
- Benefits and challenges of digital relationship building
Objective #2: Understanding Modern Online Dating
- Overview of contemporary dating applications and platforms
- Motivations for engaging in online dating
- Common experiences and frustrations reported by users
- Factors influencing success in online dating relationships
Objective #3: Psychological Impact of Online Dating
- Emotional effects of repeated rejection and nonresponse
- Self-esteem, confidence, and dating-related vulnerability
- The influence of appearance and self-perception
- Managing expectations in digital dating environments
Objective #4: Relationship Formation in Digital Spaces
- Differences between online and face-to-face interactions
- Building trust and authenticity in online relationships
- Transitioning from virtual communication to in-person connection
- Indicators of healthy and unhealthy relationship development
Objective #5: Social Connection and Emotional Well-Being
- Human needs for belonging and attachment
- The relationship between connection and psychological health
- Protective factors that support healthy relationships
- Barriers to meaningful social engagement
Objective #6: Loneliness and Social Isolation
- Defining loneliness and social isolation
- Current perspectives on the loneliness epidemic
- Emotional, physical, and psychological consequences of loneliness
- Risk factors that contribute to chronic loneliness
Objective #7: Social Media and Relationship Dynamics
- The impact of social media on self-image and relationships
- Comparison, validation, and social feedback processes
- Benefits and risks of online social engagement
- Clinical implications of digital communication patterns
Objective #8: Clinical Considerations and Assessment
- Assessing loneliness, social functioning, and relationship concerns
- Identifying maladaptive beliefs related to connection and rejection
- Evaluating the impact of technology on client well-being
- Recognizing patterns of avoidance and withdrawal
Objective #9: Therapeutic Interventions for Relationship and Loneliness Concerns
- Evidence-based approaches to addressing loneliness
- Supporting clients in developing meaningful social connections
- Enhancing communication and relationship skills
- Addressing avoidance, fear of rejection, and social anxiety
Objective #10: Solitude, Resilience, and Healthy Connection
- Distinguishing solitude from loneliness
- The role of self-reflection and personal growth
- Encouraging healthy engagement in meaningful activities
- Building balanced relationships with oneself and others
Summary and Clinical Application
- Review of key concepts related to online relationships and loneliness
- Practical strategies for supporting clients in digital and in-person settings
- Ethical and clinical considerations in technology-mediated relationships
- Questions, discussion, and integration into practice
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Jillian Graves, LCSW, Ph.D.
Recording Date: May 28, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
System Requirements: Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Safari, Edge on any modern operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS). A desktop browser is recommended. We do not provide support resources for issues encountered using a mobile device.
Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com