Characteristics and behaviours of young people who meet online contacts face-to-face

The internet provides opportunities for social interactions which first occur in an online environment that can lead to meeting up in real life. However, growing concerns around safety and privacy warrant greater study of this modern-day phenomenon. Using a longitudinal dataset of approximately 4,300 20-year-olds in Ireland, this study finds one-in-three report meeting someone from online. Multiple regression reveals that females are less likely to engage in such behaviour, while the trait of 'openness', spending more time on the internet, being non-heterosexual, using dating apps, and being sexually active at 17 years are positively associated. Early exposure to information and communication technologies, as indicated by mobile phone ownership at 9 years, is also associated with online-to-offline encounters. A range of policy considerations are discussed, including the continued need for education in e-safety and cyber safety awareness from a young age through young adulthood, particularly for groups such as LGBT communities.

Automated summary

The internet allows for social interactions to develop online and potentially transition into offline meetings. However, concerns over safety and privacy highlight the importance of studying this modern-day phenomenon. A study of young adults in Ireland shows that one-third of participants reported meeting someone they initially encountered online. Factors such as personality traits, internet usage, sexual orientation, dating app usage, and early exposure to technology were found to be associated with online-to-offline encounters. Policy considerations include the need for education in e-safety and cyber safety awareness, particularly for marginalized communities like the LGBT community.