Author Information
Shan-Shan Lee, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, TaiwanChin-Hui Chen, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan
Abstract
This study explores gendered visual self-presentation on dating applications through a sociolinguistic lens. Using content analysis, 200 Tinder profiles (100 male and 100 female) were examined to identify how users visually construct gendered identities. Six visual variables were coded: sexualization, partial physical features, emoji use, number of uploaded photos, selfie angle, and photo distance. Statistical analysis revealed that female users were significantly more likely to engage in sexualized imagery and preferred close-up, high-angle selfies, suggesting a tendency toward emotional accessibility and visual intimacy. In contrast, male users more often emphasized body parts and used medium-distance or low-angle photos, reflecting traditional masculine ideals such as dominance and height. While the number of photos and emoji use did not differ significantly, female users displayed slightly more expressive visual behaviors. These results suggest that self-presentation on dating apps continues to reflect conventional gender norms. Even within self-curated digital spaces, visual choices are strategically aligned with social expectations. This study contributes to sociolinguistic understandings of gender performance in online contexts and offers insight into the visual discourse strategies individuals employ to attract potential partners.
Paper Information
Conference: KAMC2025Stream: Gender
This paper is part of the KAMC2025 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Lee S., & Chen C. (2026) Visual Analysis of Self-Presentation on Dating Apps: A Comparison Between Taiwanese Heterosexual Female and Male Users ISSN: 2436-0503 – The Kyoto Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2025: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 789-805) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2025.64
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2025.64
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