Full Citation

Title: Matching and sorting in online dating

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2010

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Abstract: Using data on user attributes and interactions from an online dating site, we estimate mate preferences, and use the Gale-Shapley algorithm to predict stable matches. The predicted matches are similar to the actual matches achieved by the dating site, and the actual matches are approximately efficient. Out-of-sample predictions of offline matches, i.e., marriages, exhibit assortative mating patterns similar to those observed in actual marriages. Thus, mate preferences, without resort to search frictions, can generate sorting in marriages. However, we underpredict some of the correlation patterns; search frictions may play a role in explaining the discrepancy.

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Hortacsu, Ali; Ariely, Dan; Hitsch, Gunter

Periodical (Full): The American Economic Review

Issue: 1

Volume: 100

Pages: 130-163

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Family and Marriage, Other

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