So, what can you do? You can try to prevent your teen from installing dating apps by using parental controls or setting up restrictions that block off-limit sites or require them to get approval for all apps they download (learn how to do this in iOS and Android). Less dangerous but still troubling is the heavy emphasis on looks as a basis for judgment.The barrier to entry is very low: They're mostly free and allow essentially anyone to join.Some of them have mature content like drugs and nudity.Because teens often share multiple social media handles on these apps, they can give strangers access to more personal information and intimate conversations.Most are location-based - meaning they connect with people who are near you - which increases the potential for a real-life meeting with a stranger.This means adults can pose as teens - and vice versa.

Most of the 'make-new-friends' apps aren't intended for teens, but it's easy to get around age restrictions, because registration generally involves just entering a birth date.That's why it's really important to discuss the very real risks these apps pose. Also, the thrill of meeting new people in a seemingly consequence-free environment may pique the interest of any teen who thinks a cool new (boy-/girl-)friend is only a download away. So even if your kid doesn't use one, they may get exposed to one through their friends. But these apps are a fact of life for many teens (especially LGBTQ youth who may not have a supportive community at school).

And though most opt for Snapchat or Instagram to widen their social circles, some are curious enough to try one of the many messaging apps that promise to help them 'make new friends.' While these apps are designed more for casual communication than are the mainstream fee-based dating services such as Match and OkCupid, they make it super easy to text, video-chat, and share pics with strangers.Īt this point, most parents would say 'no way' and stop reading right now.

When you ask a couple how they met, it's pretty common for them to answer, 'On the internet.' So, it's no surprise that online dating has trickled down to teens.

Download apps like tinder