Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Communication
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
As individuals turn to dating apps to find romance, friendships, sex, and more, understanding the factors that shape user behavior on these platforms has become increasingly important. Guided by Wen and Miura’s (2023) motivation-based Model of Online Disinhibition, this study examined how individual factors and motives for using Tinder predict online disinhibition and subsequent disinhibited behaviors. Specifically, using an English translation of Wen & Miura’s Multi-dimensional Measure of Online Disinhibition (2024), the study tested whether gender and five Tinder use motives—sexual experience, entertainment, romance, socializing, and distraction—predicted levels of online disinhibition on Tinder and whether online disinhibition, in turn, predicted flaming, trolling, and problematic Tinder use. A self-administered, anonymous online survey of United States adults yielded 210 complete and valid responses (N = 210). The sexual experience and entertainment Tinder use motives significantly predicted online disinhibition, and online disinhibition significantly predicted flaming, trolling, and problematic Tinder use. Findings provide insight into how motivational and individual factors influence online disinhibition in the context of dating apps and provide limited support for Wen and Miura’s (2023) conceptualization of online disinhibition. Additional theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Date
2-6-2026
Recommended Citation
Schleter, Zachary, "Tinder Troubles: Testing the Motivation-Based Model of Online Disinhibition in a Mobile Dating App Context" (2026). Masters Theses. 40.
https://scholarshub.louisiana.edu/masters_theses/40
DOI
https://proquest.com/docview/3347818835
First Committee Chair
T. Phillip Madison
First Committee Member
Lauren Auverset van Gerwen
Second Committee Member
Philip Auter