Group dating
Group dating is a modern pattern for dating where a group of single people organize a night out, with the hope of forming romantic partnerships. It is most popular in Japan, where it is known as gōkon. In the U.S., group dating is becoming a safer alternative to single dating, which also helps to ease tension, because both parties will feel more comfortable having the company of their friends.
Group dating is often recommended by parenting experts as more age appropriate form of dating for preteens than one-on-one dating.
Japan
A gōkon is a type of group blind date in Japan, commonly organized to encourage socializing and potential romantic connections between two single-sex groups. Typically, a man and a woman who know each other arrange the gathering, each inviting several single friends. These events are usually held in informal venues such as restaurants or izakaya, where food, drinks, and conversation are encouraged.The term gōkon comes from the Japanese words konpa and gōdō. Generally speaking, gōkon are not primarily intended to result in one-night stands, but rather for making new acquaintances and possibly forming long-term relationships. Typically groups of men and women will sit opposite each other and converse with one another, while simultaneously whispering discussions with their same-sex peers about which potential partners they find attractive. Sometimes games are played to reduce tension and encourage a convivial atmosphere.
Since the advent of mobile phones, texting on and showing it to others has become popular as an alternative to whispering.
United Kingdom
Gōkon-style events have also developed independently at Oxford and Cambridge universities, where they are known as 'crewdate' or 'swap', respectively.United States
According to an article in USA Today:Group online dating, its creators and practitioners say, is safer than traditional Internet dating: With friends in tow, there's little fear that a date will spike your drink during a trip to the bathroom. It's more natural, akin to happy-hour mixing. Going out in groups improves your odds, at least in theory. And if the opposing social circle doesn't live up to its virtual profile, well, it's a night out with your gang."
According to a San Diego Union-Tribune article:
is part of a growing trend in the lucrative online dating market – harnessing the power of friends. Several sites are tapping into the idea that most real-world relationships begin, like it or not, with the help and influence of friends and family.