Open Relationship and Inclusive Dating Blog

Creating Digital Boundaries on Open Relationship Dating Apps and Websites

woman focused and typing on laptop in her home office.

Really. “Digital boundaries.” This sounds a whole lot like some buzz term that’s another way to pile on stress. But no, it’s actually a very real thing that many people in open relationships fail at. And it can ruin a really great dating app experience, such as what you’ll find on Open Relationship (not to toot our horn too much, but yeah).

n modern dating, technology plays a crucial role in connecting people, especially for those in open relationships. Dating apps and websites offer opportunities to meet new people and explore diverse connections. However, the digital realm also presents unique challenges that can strain relationships if boundaries aren’t clearly established. Here’s how to create and maintain digital boundaries that support a healthy open relationship.

Exploring the Dichotomy of Digital Boundaries

First, what the heck are “digital boundaries?”

If you aren’t able to quickly express the meaning, you might want to slow down on using open relationship dating apps until you clearly understand. And of course, that your partner is aligned. Because without that, confusion can set in. And we all know what confusion does to relationships with shoddy communication – we’ve all been in traditional relationships at some point in our lives, right?

Digital boundaries are a way forward for primary partners in an open relationship. They should be part of the open relationship’s overall, presiding boundaries. However, we’ve found, they often get missed.

Let’s look at some key issues involved as examples.

How often does a partner use open relationship dating apps?

This is a question that many people in open relationships are shocked to hear. They’ve never even considered it. But the more you think about it, the more it makes sense to establish this as an expectation.

Sure, maybe it’s infinite time – all good. But you should define it.

What type of connections are being sought?

Is your partner browsing for casual chats, meaningful experiences, just something a bit more physical?

Are you included?

Should you include them?

What a tangled web we weave completely inadvertently and only because we never asked to define these things.

How will you both share updates about new connections?

Or, will you?

This one may sound bizarre, but if left open ended, one partner may just decide to take a pass on updating you about any new partners they meet on our swinger app or others. And if this was left undefined, hey, are they really wrong?

Clear communications over these issues help clarify where your relationship stands.

Now, let’s leap over to the privacy portion of this.

Privacy Standards: Go Get Some

Privacy is a major consideration when using dating platforms. Sharing personal details or connecting apps to social media accounts can inadvertently create tension or violate boundaries.

Clear privacy standards can prevent misunderstandings and build trust.

Let’s get into that, shall we?

Manage Time Spent on Apps

Spending excessive time on dating platforms can lead to feelings of neglect or jealousy in your primary relationship. Striking a balance is key.

Set boundaries around app usage. For example, agree on specific times or days for using dating apps to ensure they don’t interfere with quality time together.

Address Social Media Oversharing

Posting about new connections on social media without consent can breach privacy boundaries and create discomfort.

How do we help this?

Avoid tagging or mentioning new partners. Partners should previously agree to what partner items are shared publicly.

The focus needs to be on maintaining discretion to protect all parties involved, even beyond the primary partner.

Creating and maintaining digital boundaries is essential for ensuring that open relationships thrive in the modern dating landscape. By setting clear expectations, and respecting privacy, couples can navigate dating apps and websites with confidence. Like ours! With all of the above in mind, snag a free profile on Open Relationship today.