How Does Profile Text Signal Desirability in Online Dating? A Meta-Analysis of Cue Valence and Explicitness

Signaling mate desirability is central to a well-functioning online dating market. This meta-analysis examines how profile text signals the owner's desirability. Drawing on research on negativity and cue diagnosticity, warranting theory, and signaling theory, I test how the valence (positive vs. negative) and explicitness (explicit vs. implicit) of text-based cues shape viewers' reactions. I analyzed 13 experiments (53 effect sizes) drawn from a scoping review of online dating research. Text-based cues have a small, heterogeneous effect on evaluations, dating intentions, and behavior toward the profile owner (g = 0.25). Negative cues move responses (g = 0.38), whereas positive cues do not (g = −0.07). Explicit and implicit cues do not differ overall, but the gap between negative and positive cues is larger for explicit cues. The results show that strategic verbal content in online dating profiles works as a screening device, carrying meaningful information about undesirable traits in a partner.