48% of LGBTQ+ Youth 'Found Themselves' Through Dating Apps: Tinder Releases Gen Z Survey for Pride Month

Tinder has conducted a survey targeting Gen Z individuals aged 18 to 25 within the LGBTQ+ community, focusing on their attitudes toward dating and self-expression. Conducted with the cooperation of Soshi Matsuoka, Representative Director of the general incorporated association fair, the survey revealed that Gen Z increasingly views "being oneself" positively through romance and personal connections.

While terms like Pride and LGBTQ+ have become more widely recognized in recent years, there are still few opportunities to discuss how LGBTQ+ youth actually enjoy dating and what values they hold. Tinder offers over 50 gender identity options and 9 sexual orientations. In fact, matches among LGBTQ+ users account for approximately 30% of the platform's total, making it a daily hub for diverse encounters and self-expression.

The survey found that 46% of respondents feel "enjoyment" or are "positive" about making new connections, significantly outnumbering the 17% who feel "anxious or burdened." This positive sentiment is especially strong among current dating app users, with 65% expressing favorable views on new encounters.

When asked about changes resulting from new connections, 58% said their "perspectives broadened," and 49% felt a "decrease in loneliness." Furthermore, 48% stated they "became able to accept their sexuality" or "became able to be themselves," indicating that dating and meeting people positively affect self-understanding and self-acceptance.

Regarding the purpose of using dating apps, 53% cited "finding a lover, partner, or spouse." However, non-romantic reasons were also prominent, such as "finding like-minded friends" (37%) and "connecting with people sharing the same identity" (35%). When choosing an app, "safety and avoiding dangerous individuals" was the top priority at 37%, showing that security and ease of self-expression are crucial.

To continuously support these youth in finding authentic connections both online and offline, Tinder has announced its sponsorship of "YouthProject," a community for young people provided by the non-profit organization Tokyo Rainbow Pride, and will exhibit at Youth Pride on June 13th and 14th.