OkCupid
OkCupid uses questionnaires to generate compatibility percentages between users. The question-based approach adds cognitive engagement that pure swipe apps lack, but the feed and notifications still follow standard dating app patterns.
Why this score
The compatibility system asks you to think about your values and preferences, which is more cognitively demanding than swiping on photos. Match percentages give the comparison a numerical dimension.
The feed surface, notifications, and profile browsing follow standard dating engagement patterns.
The breakdown
- Attention Capture5.0
Mechanics designed to keep you in the app right now — infinite scroll, autoplay, variable rewards, and reactive swipe-tap loops.
- Habit Formation4.0
Mechanics designed to bring you back — streak coercion, default push notifications, and re-engagement of dormant users.
- Social Pressure6.0
How much the experience exploits social psychology — public metrics, profile curation, and status comparison against others.
- Time Theft4.0
Mechanics that steal more time than you intended to give — no stopping cues, short units, and 'just one more' loops.
- Cognitive Erosion1.0
Mechanics that replace your independent thinking, memory, or judgment — creating dependency on the tool to function.
- Cognitive Nourishment3.0
Whether the app actively strengthens your ability to think for yourself. Shown on the label, but it does not affect the score.
Recommended usage
Fill out the questions thoughtfully. The compatibility system only works as well as the answers you give it.