Imagine meeting someone online who seems perfect—their photos are stunning, their personality matches yours, and the conversation just flows. But then, you find out they’re not who they said they were. This is catfishing, when someone creates a fake identity online to connect with others. But why do people do it? Let’s explore the reasons behind this phenomenon in a way that’s easy to understand.
The internet as a stage for reinvention
Online, you can be anyone you want. That’s part of the appeal. Most people might tweak their profile a little—a more flattering photo here, a tiny age adjustment there. But for catfishers, it’s about creating a whole new identity, often using someone else’s photos.
This is partly because the internet feels safe and anonymous. Psychologists call this the “online disinhibition effect,” when people feel freer to act in ways they maybe wouldn’t offline (Suler, 2004). For some, it’s a chance to escape reality and experiment with a new version of themselves.
Looking for connection
One big reason people catfish is loneliness. They want to connect with others but don’t feel confident about their real selves, so they create a persona they think others will like (Schokkenbroek, 2024).
People who feel anxious about relationships—what psychologists call “attachment anxiety“—are more likely to catfish (Mosley et al., 2020). They’re afraid of rejection and use the fake identity as a shield to protect themselves while still seeking companionship.
Escaping offline challenges
For some, catfishing is about escaping their struggles. Maybe they feel insecure about their looks, jobs, or life in general. By pretending to be someone else, they can live out a fantasy where they feel more confident and admired (Schokkenbroek, 2024).
In line with this, research shows that people with low self-esteem or who feel less desirable as romantic partners are more likely to create fake profiles (Campbell & Parker, 2022). For them, it’s not just about fooling others—it’s about feeling better about themselves.
Thrill-seeking
Not all catfishers are lonely or insecure. Some enjoy the thrill of deception. They see it as a game—a way to test their ability to fool others. These people often have personality traits like narcissism or Machiavellianism, which involve a desire for control and admiration and a lack of empathy (Lauder & March, 2023).
Boredom and curiosity
Sometimes, catfishing is simply a way to pass the time. Some people create fake profiles out of boredom or curiosity to see how others will react (Schokkenbroek, 2024). However, this doesn’t make it harmless—even casual deception can hurt those on the receiving end.
Exploring identity
For others, creating a fake profile is a way to explore parts of their identity they’re not ready to share with the world. This is especially common in LGBTQIA+ communities, where fear of discrimination might lead someone to create a fake profile (Owens, 2017). By pretending to be someone else, they can safely explore their feelings and preferences.
The impact of catfishing
Being catfished can be devastating. Victims often feel betrayed and embarrassed; some even feel traumatized. Studies show that it can lead to anxiety and difficulty trusting others in future relationships (Lauckner et al., 2019).
The act can also be harmful to catfishers. Maintaining a fake persona is exhausting, and the fear of being exposed can keep them isolated. It’s a cycle that is hard to break.
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What can be done?
Understanding why people catfish is the first step toward addressing the issue. With what we know now, providing resources for people dealing with loneliness, low self-esteem, or identity struggles could help reduce the appeal of creating a fake profile. Additionally, dating apps and social media platforms should implement better verification methods to reduce fake profiles.
Catfishing is a complex issue with many layers. By exploring the reasons behind it, we can better understand how to prevent it and create a more authentic online world.
