Experiences Moving from Online Interaction to In-Person Meetings

This anonymous survey explores experiences transitioning from online interaction (chat, audio, video) to meeting in person. It takes about 3–4 minutes. No identifying information is required.

1) About you

Age range

Gender / sex identity Other (optional):

Which best describes you?

Looking for connection Curious / exploring Experienced with online platforms Prefer not to say

Who were you hoping to connect with?

Women Men Non-binary / gender diverse people Anyone / no preference Prefer not to say

2) Platform experience

Have you ever used an online platform to connect with someone you did not previously know in person? Dating platforms Friendship or social apps Professional networking platforms Online gaming communities Interest-based forums or groups Considered using one but have not None of the above

Select all that apply.

3) Positive interaction that didn’t progress

Have you ever had a positive online interaction that did not progress to an in-person meeting? Yes No Not applicable

4) Before a first in-person meeting

How do you typically feel before a first in-person meeting with someone you met online? Comfortable and relaxed Slightly nervous Moderately anxious Very anxious I usually avoid meeting in person

5) First meeting hesitation

Have you ever hesitated to meet in person, even when the online interaction felt positive? Often Sometimes Rarely Never

6) Hesitation reasons

If you hesitated, what were the main reasons? (Select up to three) Other (optional):

If you selected “Never” above, you can leave this blank.

7) Vulnerability shift

Pick the transition that felt like the biggest increase in vulnerability

From (choose one)

Text chat Audio call Video call In-person meeting None feel significantly different

To (choose one)

Audio call Video call In-person meeting Ongoing connection

Tip: selecting an option highlights its circle in purple so you can see your chosen pair.

8) Anxiety reducers

Which of the following might reduce anxiety before a first in-person meeting? (Select all that apply) A clearly time-limited first meeting (e.g., 15 minutes) Independent confirmation from both people immediately before meeting A structured or moderated introduction format A semi-private space within a public venue A clearly defined way to end the meeting without explanation Nothing would significantly reduce anxiety Other Other (optional):

9) Uncomfortable moment

In one or two sentences: What is the most uncomfortable part of a first in-person meeting?

10) Further surveys

Would you be willing to participate in a deeper anonymous follow-up survey on this topic? Yes No