OEJ yes I do think the internet has taken away other social skills.
As to dating 10 years ago I thought the internet would be a way of meeting people particularly for those who through choice or circumstance do not spend every Friday and Saturday evening in pubs and clubs.
I have never joined any subscription sites as so many so which to select, the doubt that if I did there are like minded local members and plus I think ?20+ / month is a rip-off for a site that per member actually costs very little to run.