How Accurate are Online Profiles?

Discussion about whether Facebook profiles and dating profiles accurately represent who people really are.

Vanessa Van Edwards introduces colleagues Danielle and Lauren to discuss research about online profile accuracy rather than presenting information alone.

• Panelists believe Facebook is more accurate than dating profiles • Dating profiles tend to show idealized, perfect versions that lack vulnerability • People on dating apps curate their best presentation rather than authentic self

If you present your best version on a profile, is that considered false representation?

People naturally don't share all personal details upfront on dating profiles, just like they wouldn't immediately reveal all problems or negative habits.

Both the profile writer and reader expect that initial profiles present the best version, which is tied to how first impressions work.

Lauren describes looking at friends' dating profiles and analyzing their choices, such as someone posting a photo with their dog on a beach in a beanie.

• Photo selections communicate what someone wants you to think about them • A dog-beach-beanie combo suggests the person is an animal lover and wants to attract someone who shares that interest • Profiles reveal both who you are and who you want to be perceived as

Research by Sim Vazquez found that Facebook profiles are actualized versions of ourselves that do reflect our personality traits accurately.

People can look at someone's Facebook profile and pretty accurately guess their personality traits based on what's presented.

While Facebook profiles reflect real personality, they show our idealized or best version of ourselves.

Profiles serve a dual purpose: they show who you actually are while also communicating who you want others to think you are.

Always be authentic in your profiles while also thinking about the best version of yourself you want to portray.

• Consider how your profile will attract your ideal mate • Think about how it will attract your ideal client or partner • Balance authenticity with intentional presentation

Facebook profiles are real and not all fake; they genuinely represent people while also being their best version.

Ensure your profiles are as authentic as possible while strategically presenting the best version of yourself.