Today In the digital age, social networks are not limited to our smartphones. It also affects our relationships. Instead of creating relationships, social media increases distances. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X and WhatsApp have given access to the virtual world, where people can connect with people sitting in any corner of the world.
But there is also a void in this digital connection. People may be surrounded by thousands of “friends”, but in real life they have no one to talk to. Recently, a study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relations found that excessive use of social media can lead to relationship problems.
In such a situation, today we will know the relationships-
How can social media create a rift in relationships? What could their solutions be?
Impact of Social Media on Relationships
According to the “Journal of Social and Personal Relations,” the increasing use of social media creates insecurity and emotional distance in relationships. 2000 couples aged 18 to 40 were included in this research. Research has shown that people who spend more time on social media experience increased feelings of tension, distrust, and insecurity in their relationships.
Why are relationship distances increasing?
Oversharing and lack of personal space
The trend of sharing all things big and small on social media has increased. But the truth is, not everyone should know your relationship history. Confidentiality is very important in relationships. But nowadays people post every moment spent with their partner on social media, which leads to a lack of personal space between them.
pressure of social comparison
People often share their happy moments on social media. In such a situation, seeing other people’s posts about the “perfect couple” can create a feeling of dissatisfaction in your relationship. It seems our relationship is not at that level and this disappointment can create distance in the relationship.
poor time management
Nowadays, it has become common to spend hours on social networks. Often people stay lost in their mobile even when they are with their partner. These little things create a rift in relationships. We must understand that time is the pillar of any relationship.
an atmosphere of incomprehension and doubt
It’s okay to chat with old friends, former partners or connect with new friends on social media, but this can lead to misunderstandings. The lack of transparency in the relationship creates an environment of suspicion.
Use social media in a healthy way
Although social media also has negative effects, its balanced use can bring positivity in relationships. Let’s discuss its solution through graphics.
Let us understand the points given in the graph in detail-
Limit time for social media
Every person should set a time limit for social media. Spending more than one to two hours a day on social media can damage relationships. Try to respect this deadline and give your relationship time.
maintain open communication
If a post or reaction on social media makes you feel insecure, talk about it openly with your partner. Transparency in communication strengthens relationships.
avoid comparison
Don’t compare your relationship with the perfect relationships you see on social media. Remember that every person experiences ups and downs in life and everyone only shares the good parts of their life on social media.
be honest with each other
If someone is harassing you on social media, block them and tell your partner. If the matter is serious, discuss it with your partner and take legal action. Honesty is the foundation of relationships and increases trust.
maintain confidentiality in private moments
It’s important to share personal moments in a relationship, but avoid oversharing these moments on social media. Thus, a respectable distance is maintained in the relationship and the partner also feels good.
Relationship counseling option
If you are having problems in your relationship and you are not able to resolve them yourself, seek professional relationship counseling. This is a common practice these days and you should not hesitate.
How to protect your relationship from the influence of social networks?
maintain transparency in communication
Communication is very important in a relationship. If you chat a lot with a friend on social media, instead of hiding it from your partner, say it openly. Such small communications maintain transparency in your relationship.
respect personal space
Before sharing on social media, ask yourself if this is a private moment? To keep your relationship moments special, it’s important not to share everything on social media.
Stay away from your phone during “family time”
When you’re with your partner, keep the phone on silent or away from it. “Family time” should be reserved for you and your partner. With this, you can enjoy each other’s company.
Avoid comparing posts with others
Not all social media relationships are ideal. Stop comparing your relationship with other people’s relationships and try to make your little moments with your partner special.