Question

what might explain this higher divorce rate among those who met online?

the ties between couples who met online are not reinforced by indirect ties that hold them together.

people who meet online are negatively selected: they are the difficult people nobody wants to set up with their friends.

the stigma of having met online can damage the relationship.

online dating apps emphasize appearance and other superficial traits, not qualities that would make a person a good life partner.

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Explanation:

• The ties between couples who met online are not reinforced by indirect ties that hold them together: In offline relationships, couples often have mutual friends, family connections etc. (indirect ties) that can act as a support system and a "glue" in the relationship. Online - met couples may lack such extensive indirect social support networks which could lead to higher divorce rates.
• People who meet online are negatively selected: they are the difficult people nobody wants to set up with their friends: This is a possible selection bias. If those who are hard - to - pair - off (due to various reasons like being too picky, having difficult personalities etc.) are more likely to use online dating (as they can't get set up through traditional means), their relationship success rate (lower divorce rate would be a sign of success) could be lower.
• The stigma of having met online can damage the relationship: Societal stigma can put additional stress on the relationship. Couples may face judgment from family, friends or society in general. This external pressure can erode the relationship over time, contributing to a higher divorce rate.
• Online dating apps emphasize appearance and other superficial traits, not qualities that would make a person a good life partner: If the initial attraction is based on looks or other non - core relationship qualities (like wealth shown on a profile), once the relationship progresses and real - life compatibility (emotional support, shared values etc.) is tested, the relationship may fail more often, leading to higher divorce rates.

Answer:

All of the options (The ties between couples who met online are not reinforced by indirect ties that hold them together; People who meet online are negatively selected: they are the difficult people nobody wants to set up with their friends; The stigma of having met online can damage the relationship; Online dating apps emphasize appearance and other superficial traits, not qualities that would make a person a good life partner) could potentially explain the higher divorce rate among those who met online.