Method for controlling the matching process in an online dating system

A method, performed by a computer, for operating a matching service, the method comprising:

• receiving information identifying preferences for a mate from at least one user;
• receiving demographic information of the at least one user, the demographic information comprising a gender of the at least one user;
• providing, when the at least one user is female, an ability to initiate contact with another user;
• inhibiting, when the at least one user is male, the male user from contacting a female user unless the female user has authorized contact from the male user.

A method, performed by a computer, for operating a matching service, the method comprising:

• receiving information identifying preferences for a mate from at least one user;
• receiving demographic information of the at least one user, the demographic information comprising a personality trait of the at least one user;
• providing, when the at least one user has a preselected personality trait, an ability to initiate contact with another user;
• inhibiting, when the at least one user does not have the preselected personality trait, the user not having the preselected personality trait from contacting an other user unless the other user has authorized such contact.