Woman Sparks Heated Online Debate After Suggesting Men Should Have To Pay A 'First Date Deposit'

Dating is a brutal game at the best of times, but one woman's idea to start charging a 'first date deposit' has caused quite a stir on the internet. Thirty-year-old Maddy Carty came up with the idea as a way to stop men from ghosting her at the last minute.

After being stood up numerous times and wasting a considerable amount of money on makeup and new outfits, Maddy decided it was time to take a stand. She proposed that men should have to pay a deposit to schedule a date with a woman so that they would be less likely to ditch her.

Maddy conceived the notion after several failed dates with men she met via dating apps. "If someone cancels a date within 24 hours, you should be able to charge a cancellation fee," she said on her 'Mads World' podcast.

However, people weren't impressed with Maddy's controversial idea. "And they wonder why relationships fail; great start indeed," wrote one person on TikTok.

"If you want to know why blokes are canceling on you, then just re-watch your own TikTok," another commented. "If we wanted the drama and the pageantry, we'd all just head to the Miss World contest."

But Maddy refused to back down. "I said what I said, and I stand by it," she responded to the backlash.

She shared a story about a man she had been speaking to online for a few weeks before scheduling a date and being stood up with less than half an hour's notice. "We'd locked in a time and place for Friday night; I tanned the night before," Maddy said.

"I went into work that day when I could have worked from home. I did my makeup. I styled my hair. I dressed up. I had a pre-drink with my workmates at the bar... and then got a text half an hour before we were meant to meet up," she recalled.

Maddy says it's become an all-too-common occurrence in recent times. "It probably happens one out of two times," she said.

Maddy believes the fee would be more than fair compensation for her lost time and money. "You can't get back the time you invest in getting ready and getting excited," she said.

One woman's idea to start charging a 'first date deposit' has caused quite a stir on the internet.

Instagram/maddycarty

"If someone cancels a date within 24 hours, you should be able to charge a cancellation fee," she said on her 'Mads World' podcast.

"If you wouldn't cancel on your friend last minute, then what makes you think canceling on someone you've been talking to online is okay?"

Instagram/maddycarty

Maddy says it's simply disrespectful for a man to stand a woman up with little to no notice. "I'm someone who sticks to plans once I make them out of respect for the other person," she said.

"If you wouldn't cancel on your friend last minute, then what makes you think canceling on someone you've been talking to online is okay?" We have to admit that she makes a valid point.

We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

Psychological Perspectives on Dating Costs

Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a prominent relationship expert, emphasizes the emotional toll of being ghosted. She notes that modern dating often lacks accountability, leading to feelings of rejection and anxiety.

Her research indicates that establishing clear communication and expectations can significantly improve dating experiences. Solomon suggests that, rather than financial penalties, fostering open dialogues about intentions and feelings can cultivate healthier interactions.

This approach not only reduces misunderstandings but also promotes mutual respect, ultimately enhancing the dating landscape.

According to Dr. Eli Finkel, a leading researcher in relationships, the concept of a 'first date deposit' could reflect deeper issues in dating culture. He argues that the rise of digital interactions has led to increased disconnection and lack of accountability.

Instead of financial barriers, Finkel advocates for setting emotional boundaries and enhancing self-awareness. He recommends that individuals focus on understanding their own dating goals and communicating them effectively, which can lead to more meaningful connections.

By prioritizing these strategies, daters can navigate the complexities of modern relationships more successfully.

Clinical Perspective & Next Steps

Discussions around charging a 'first date deposit' reveal significant insights into contemporary dating challenges. Mental health professionals like Dr. Solomon and Dr. Finkel suggest that the focus should shift from financial penalties to fostering emotional intelligence and communication.

By promoting open conversations about expectations and feelings, individuals can create healthier dating environments. This approach not only addresses the potential for disappointment but also encourages accountability and connection. Embracing these strategies can positively transform dating experiences for everyone involved.