Who Are the Better Online Flirters, Men or Women?

There are a number of articles available that expound upon the differences of men and women, and many have made good points and poor points alike. But ignoring those for a moment, what about the differences of men and women in cyberspace, specifically in romance? Do the two act markedly different when engaging in the many activities associated with online relationships, or does the computer screen make us all more alike?

One of the most important activities of any romance is flirting. Though it does change a bit, flirting is still remarkably the same even on the web. Because it is arguably the building block of all romantic relationships, I will focus on the differences, if any, that exist between the types and styles of flirting that exist between males and females.

First of all, we must take a look at the styles of flirting that the sexes use in face-to-face relationships. We've been told all of our lives that men are usually the brasher of the flirters, while women are far more subtle. But does this basic “fact” hold much truth in the first place? It depends upon who you ask, but generally in society as a whole, the male usually asks the female out on the first date, usually drives to the location where the date will be held, and is usually expected to ask if a second date would be appropriate. Though these are never concrete, it is fair to say that most everyone who has dated has seen these practiced. But how does this translate to an online relationship where there are no cars, dinners, movies, or (in most cases) phone numbers?
Just as we see the tone of dating constantly evolving--not exactly drastically or quickly, but it does definitely change--those in online relationships practice a number of different styles of dating as well. The main difference in this evolution, though, is that people in online relationships experience far less of the normal dating expectations that a face-to-face couple does. This allows them, then, to create a dating experience that best fits their own unique needs as a couple. Instead of forming a dating relationship based on the roles of the different sexes, online daters instead base a relationship on what works.

The styles of flirting are then based much more on the personalities of the couple, rather than on each of their sexes. Instead of strengthening the accepted roles of men and women, the internet has actually began acting as an equalizer for those involved in a web romance.

Who is the better flirter in online relationships? Because of the unique dynamic that the internet has created, the answer is both!