My guess is that by "isolate" the parent means it would be awkward to have others at the table hear that you are doing that (edit: asking for a phone number) or it might make someone who wasn't picked feel uncomfortable or even the person you've picked might feel uncomfortable in front of others rejecting (or even accepting) a phone number request.
Isn't the whole thing supposed to be a dating site? Isn't the whole point of dating to find (ie: "isolate") someone you like and go do fun things together?
Maybe. But all of those are artificial problems that don't really exist with people who have gone beyond the emotional/social maturity of 14 year olds.
It's also a sign of cowardice. Cowardice is unattractive in potential mates.
Your analysis of the situation is basically correct but your judgmental tone and general sneering attitude to those with social problems are the mark of a cock.
No, it's not. It's a sign of empathy, attractive to potential mates. It isn't just you taking the risk (which you could ascribe to cowardliness); it is you needing to be careful to not shame your friends.
No, it's not cowardice. It's about being discreet. Though I agree with another poster in this subthread: just ask everyone's phone numbers (if the group is small enough).
It actually takes courage to disengage from a group setting in order to signify romantic interest in someone you don't know very well. The comfortable thing to do is remain in the group setting.
My guess is that by "isolate" the parent means it would be awkward to have others at the table hear that you are doing that (edit: asking for a phone number) or it might make someone who wasn't picked feel uncomfortable or even the person you've picked might feel uncomfortable in front of others rejecting (or even accepting) a phone number request.