The platforms connecting people around the world are noticed to have effects on each user’s real life connections. Social media impacts relationships in many ways. It has its positive and negative effects. 

Social media consists of the platforms where an individual can interact with people from any corner of the world. People are curious and want to explore via social media. This has given us the opportunity to connect with and maintain relationships with people no matter where they are.

At the same time, social media is like a black hole and  people are getting sucked into it. There have been cases where individuals are so focused on maintaining their virtual relationships that they have ignored their real-life relationships. 




The Positive Effects of Social Media on Relationships

Staying in touch

Social media has provided us the privilege of staying in touch with each other even if there are no regular meet-ups. In fact, social media relationships help keep contact irrespective of the distance between the two people, various situations, different time zones and other factors.

Creates memories

Social media keeps a history of the activity done, which allows it to store memories related to the relationship. It includes messages, pictures, voice notes, links, etc. These memories can be revisited whenever one feels like it. It helps rejuvenate the relationship and cherish the moments.






The Negative Effects of Social Media on Relationships

Unrealistic expectations

No two relationships can be the same. The individuals involved in each relationship are unique hence they make the relationship unique. Unfortunately, social media has created a very different image of relationships which does not match real relationships. Hence the individuals in the relationship end up getting disappointed when their superficial expectations are not met with. 

No quality time

If the members of the relationship are engrossed in social media, they fail to spend time with their partners and ignore their partner’s needs, emotions and essential conversations. If the relationship is not given time, it tends to fall apart.

Fuels jealousy

Research has proven that the people with higher levels of social media consumption have reported higher levels of jealousy within their relationship. Incase of insecure attachment style, the partner’s higher usage of social media leads to jealousy and eventually disagreement. 

How to Manage Social Media Use in Relationships?

Unfortunately people are checking their notifications before wishing the ones around them a good morning. Prioritising the outside world more than meaningful relationships has led to a drift between people. This habit can be consciously changed. People can make an effort to refrain from looking at their devices first thing in the morning.

Many prefer texting to in-person conversations. Texting has been beneficial in many ways. Although, when emotions are being discussed, a text does not convey the genuine emotion. Texts may lead to misunderstandings which have been known to hamper relationships. Therefore, it is always beneficial to discuss serious matters in–person or on a call. 

Avoid using social media as a venting platform.  Especially when you wish to vent out about someone else. Let us make a conscious effort to minimise the use of social media and its impact on relationships. Let us keep them as human as possible.







Best regards,
Manogna sai Gudivada