Special Issue - Call for Papers

Matchmaking methods in the 21st Century

Guest Editors: Dr. Monica Whitty (Queen’s University Belfast) and Dr. Tom Buchanan (University of Westminster)

Submission deadline: 10th December 2007

Method of submission: All manuscripts should be prepared in a word document and emailed to Dr. Tom Buchanan on [log in to unmask]

Issue scope

Singles these days have a multitude of formalised methods to choose from to seek out a romantic partner. What might be classed as more old fashioned methods, such as personal ads, dating agencies and blind dates are still used by some. However, more contemporary methods both online and offline are increasing in popularity. Despite this increase, there is a dearth of academic research examining the utility of these matchmaking methods, the types of people using them, and the motivations to use them.

A variety of types of online dating services exist online which require a payment from individuals. Social networking sites, such as MySpace and Bebo are also set up to accommodate individuals who would like to find a romantic partner. Some companies have even developed software for mobile phones to alert individuals to when a potential date is within their vicinity. Further research is needed to elucidate how people use these cyber-methods and how successful individuals are at finding appropriate matches.

Offline, speed dating has become a popular means of meeting potential dates. Moreover, some reality tv shows, are dedicated to matchmaking. Some of these shows require participants to endure some fairly gruelling tasks.
Little is known about the success or the appeal of any of these offline methods.

This Special Issue aims to present the best current work in the social sciences on formalised matchmaking methods. We are especially interested, but are not restricted to, both empirical and theoretical work on the following topics:
• Personality characteristics of users of formalised matchmaking methods.
• The perceived and actual pros and cons of using any of these formalised matchmaking methods.
• Stigmatisation associated with the use of any formalised matchmaking method.
• An examination of how successful any of these formalised matchmaking methods are.
• Identity and self-presentation issues related to formalised matchmaking methods.

All manuscripts will be sent out for anonymous peer review. Although the journal does accept papers in different languages, only papers in English will be accepted for this Special Issue. Authors should consult the Notes for Contributors for further information about submission requirements. http://www.interpersona.org/

For further information about the Special Issue, please contact either of the Guest Editors:
Monica Whitty: [log in to unmask]
Tom Buchanan: [log in to unmask]

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