Dating Dilemma: Predicting the barriers to adoption of Online Dating Apps (ODAs) Applying Innovation Resistance Theory

Abstract

This study intended to identify the barriers that inhibit the adoption of online dating apps (ODAs). It applied innovation resistance theory, with attitude being used as a moderator. A sample of 440 responses from ODAs users was analyzed using structural equation modeling. The three barriers of risk, usage, and tradition have a significant negative influence on the adoption intention of ODAs. Attitude was found to moderate the association between the usage barrier and adoption intention, whereas attitude did not moderate the association between the risk barrier and adoption intention or that between the tradition barrier and adoption intention. Age, gender, income, educational qualification, and household size were used as control variables. The study contributes to the current body of knowledge by identifying the barriers that influence the adoption intention of ODAs. Practical implications for the professionals and firms engaged in ODAs, as well as theoretical contributions, demonstrate the benefits of the study.

Keywords:

• Innovation resistance theory
• attitude: adoption intention
• moderation
• dating apps

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).