To answer this question, we first need to see the purpose of dating apps. Generally speaking, dating apps are used for people to find people who are close to them, see a short description about them, and possibly a picture. If they feel like they might get along with this person (or if they really liked the picture) then a conversation can start. This might even lead to a meeting… or shall we say, date!
Considering the prevalence of dating apps, and the amount of people using them both for casual relationships and more committed ones, it’s important to always be clear about what you want out of it. Do you want something more casual? Something serious? Naturally, both of these questions should be discussed with your partner within the first few dates. This is because, deleting dating apps is linked with when one enters into a happy, committed relationship – in other words, when you’ve agreed to become exclusive.
So to answer this question, I would say – speak with your partner. Have the relationship talk, see where you both see this relationship heading. If you both wish to “go steady” (be exclusive), then removing dating apps or no longer accessing dating apps, would be the next discussion point.
Mel McElhatton holds a degree in Social Work from the University of Malta. With Willingness, Mel does life coaching and is one of the facilitators in the IRL – In Real Life team. They are also the producer of the radio show Niddiskutu s-Sess. They can be contacted on mel@willingness.com.mt.