This paper develops a search-and-matching model where potential partners can learn about their compatibility as a couple by spending time together (interpreted as dating). We show that a steady-state equilibrium exists and characterize its induced dating patterns. In equilibrium, highly attractive individuals are more selective. We derive conditions under which equilibria induce positive assortative matching, and show that even when these conditions hold, the socially optimal outcome can exhibit negative assortative matching. Finally, the framework is applied to study the effect of recent advances in search technologies on dating patterns and the connection between dating and interracial segregation.

本文构建了一个搜索与匹配模型，在该模型中，潜在伴侣可通过共度时光（即约会）来了解彼此作为配偶的兼容性。我们证明稳态均衡存在，并刻画了该均衡所诱发的约会模式。在均衡状态下，吸引力较高的个体表现出更强的选择性。我们推导出均衡产生正向分类匹配的条件，并表明即使这些条件成立，社会最优结果仍可能呈现负向分类匹配。最后，将该框架应用于研究搜索技术的最新进展对约会模式的影响，以及约会与跨种族隔离之间的关联。