LibraryScenariosWhen digital connection becomes a substitute for real intimacy
Scenario

When digital connection becomes a substitute for real intimacy

I matched with someone on a dating app six months ago and we text every day but have never met and I think I am more in love with the idea of them than who they actually are.

Hypatia
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Fantasy relationships can feel safer than real ones because they never challenge our projections with actual human complexity.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Romantic Relationships & Dating?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.