Do Men “Heighten” Their Chances on Dating Apps? A Look at Singapore’s Heaping Phenomenon

Last Update: March 12, 2024

When scrolling through the profiles on dating apps in Singapore, have you noticed how the heights of your potential matches seem to stack up at certain numbers more than others? It’s not just your imagination. A recent study delving into thousands of height data points from dating app profiles has uncovered a pattern: heaping. This statistical term refers to the tendency of individuals to round up their height, with our research showing that this practice is notably more pronounced among men.

But before jumping to conclusions about honesty, let’s explore what might be driving this trend. Could societal expectations or the pressure to conform to an ideal be at play? It’s a complex dance between self-perception and the desire to make a good impression.

What Is Heaping?

Heaping is when reported numerical data clusters around preferred numbers, usually those ending in 0 or 5. It’s a form of rounding, but in the context of dating apps, it can subtly inflate certain height measurements. Our study observed that men are particularly inclined to round their heights to the nearest 5 cm mark, a pattern less observed in women.

Unpacking the Pressure

This phenomenon could be partly due to cultural expectations. In many societies, Singapore included, taller height is often associated with attractiveness, especially for men. Dating apps, playing on the currency of first impressions, may intensify the urge to meet these expectations.

The Impact on Dating App Culture

Does this mean men are consciously lying? Not necessarily. The difference between 179 cm and 180 cm might not be physically noticeable, but the psychological impact of hitting that 180 mark can be significant. It speaks to the nuances of human behavior — the small adjustments we make to align with perceived norms.

A Profound Reflection

For dating app users, these findings offer a moment to reflect on what we seek and present in potential partners. It underscores the importance of looking beyond numbers and focusing on the more meaningful aspects that contribute to genuine connections.

Embracing Authenticity

While our study highlights heaping, it also reveals an opportunity. What if we all leaned a little more into our authentic selves? Could this transparency pave the way for more honest and fulfilling interactions? We think so.

In a sea of profiles, the courage to be genuine stands out. It might just be the trait that attracts someone looking for depth beyond the digits.