Don't Let The Bad Economy Get You Down!
Jan 7, 2009 9:18 pm US/Eastern
Online Dating Big in '08
KENDALL (CBS4) ―
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Georgette decided to give online dating a try for the new year.
CBS
A growing trend got even bigger in the year 2008: Online dating services saw an increase in traffic according to several of the most popular companies.
"I figured I would give it a shot and see what happen," said Georgette to
CBS4's Jorge Estevez, alongside a lake near Kendall. The two sat down to talk about the advantages of being online looking for companionship.
"I have actually made some good guy friends," said Georgette, who didn't want to give her last name. This 30-something is among the growing number of people who in 2008 signed up looking for some company during the tough economic times.
"I find myself going out more and having more fun these days that times are bad," said Georgette.
But one thing Georgette doesn't do is lie.
"Do you admit to stretching the truth?" asked
CBS4's Jorge Estevez. "No not so much, because I am afraid then later on, I will get caught," said Georgette.
New numbers released by online dating services show in 2008 craigslist and eharmony were up 20 percent. Match.com faired slightly better at 22 percent of an increase.
"They want to know that everyone else is feeling anxious and stressed too, so that they can share that," said Dr. Carol Clark, a sexology expert.
Dr. Clark may have a PhD in sexology but online dating may be more about the economy.
"When you go out and meet people and you ask somebody out for a date you have to spend a lot of money, and then what, it may fizzle out and be nothing," said Dr. Clark.
While Georgette hopes to share long walks along the beach with someone she believes either way it beats the bar scene. And as far as misery loving company, Georgette does not agree: "My motto wouldn't be misery loves company but when times are tough go out and have a good time and celebrate the postiive aspects of life."
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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