# David Markowitz

David Markowitz is a researcher whose work challenges dating app scarcity designs, suggesting expanded choices may improve user commitment.

Source: https://highintentmedia.com/news/people/david-markowitz
Type: Person
Maintained by: High Intent newsroom
Last updated: 2026-07-31T14:39:22.146339+00:00

## Profile

David Markowitz is a researcher affiliated with Michigan State University. His work includes studies into user behavior and perceptions within online dating platforms. A study co-authored by Markowitz, involving 535 participants, investigated the impact of displaying different numbers of profiles to users. The findings indicated that users shown 31 profiles expressed a stronger intention for commitment compared to those shown only 6 profiles. This research challenges the common design principle in some dating applications, such as Hinge and Bumble, which intentionally limit the number of profiles presented to users daily. These scarcity-based designs are often implemented based on the theory of choice overload, aiming to simplify decision-making. Markowitz's study suggests that these current app designs might not be optimal for fostering user outcomes like commitment. The implication for dating operators is to consider testing expanded choice sets within their platforms.

## FAQ

### What did David Markowitz's study on dating apps conclude?

The study concluded that users shown a larger number of profiles (31) expressed a stronger intention for commitment than those shown a limited number (6). This challenges the scarcity design prevalent in some dating apps like Hinge and Bumble.

### How does David Markowitz's research impact dating app design?

His research suggests that limiting profile choices, based on choice overload theory, might not be enhancing user commitment. Dating app operators might consider experimenting with expanded choice sets to potentially improve user outcomes and match quality.

### Which dating apps were referenced in the context of Markowitz's study?

The study's context specifically mentioned Hinge and Bumble. These platforms are known for their design strategies that limit the daily number of profiles presented to users, a practice directly questioned by Markowitz's findings.

## Our coverage

- [MSU Study Puts Hinge and Bumble's Scarcity Logic on Trial](https://highintentmedia.com/md/news/larger-number-dating-options-increase-commitment.md), 2026-05-28

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