My husband wants to use a dating app

Query: My husband and I went for dinner last week and he confessed he wants to make an account on a dating app. He wants to talk to strangers, know what's happening in their life and expand his social circle. He has not yet made his account but I am confused what to say to him.


What if he starts liking someone there? We do not touch each other's cell, so I won't be able to know to whom he is chatting.

On the other hand, we don't restrict each other anywhere. Saying no for installing the app would break this pact. What should I do? We are in late thirties and have two kids. - By Anonymous


Response by Ms. Rachana Awatramani: Nowadays, apps have become a new way of socializing and meeting people. As most of the people do not have time in their busy schedule to meet new people and make new friends, apps provide a wide variety of options. A person can start the communication and this also saves a lot of time for the people who are juggling between their work and home commitments.

I comprehend that you and your husband are in late thirties and you have two kids. It is great to know that you and your husband respect each other’s space and speak openly. I can understand that you are confused as your husband shared his interest of having an account on a dating app to socialize. It can be challenging for you to accept this as it is also giving rise to insecurities of him liking someone else. I acknowledge that you don’t touch each other’s cell phone and don’t restrict each other anywhere. However, you can speak to him and appreciate that he shared his interest with you openly and share your feelings of insecurities with him.

As mentioned above people sometimes use the dating apps for socializing and making friends. You can discuss and understand his intention behind his interest and also ask him to assure you about his interest. If there is an issue in your relationship, you can also visit a marriage counsellor.


- Ms. Rachana Awatramani is a counselling psychologist in Mumbai


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