7 Surprising Ways Social Media Is Changing Love and Relationships
Social media has completely changed how we live, including the way we talk to each other and build relationships. It’s also made a big difference in how we experience love and handle romantic connections. Some of these changes have been good, while others have brought new challenges. So, is social media making relationships better or harder? Let’s take a closer look. Here are 17 surprising ways social media is affecting love and relationships.
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the writer’s personal beliefs.
New Communication Methods
While our parents only had phone calls and letters or postcards when going on holiday, we now communicate in so many ways! You can contact and talk to your partner through hundreds of different methods, from texts to photos, videos, and emails.
More Competition
Unfortunately, social media has led to much more romantic competition. With a simple click, you can contact hundreds of people on social media, from Instagram to Facebook and TikTok. On top of this, asking someone out has never been so easy as you can easily do so through message.
No Alone Time
Social media has also made it difficult for us to get some authentic solo time away from our partners. Think about it. When did you last spend eight consecutive hours without a text or phone call from your spouse?
Less Time Together
Paradoxically, while on the one hand, it’s getting increasingly hard to spend time alone, spending time together is also becoming more challenging. This is because the temptation to scroll through Instagram instead of cherishing our time with our partner constantly tempts us.
More Inspiration
On the positive side, social media can be a great source of inspiration. Every day, plenty of couples post romantic ideas for a weekend getaway, a little present to surprise your spouse or a date idea that you will both love. This makes it easier for you to be romantic with each other.
Digital Love Language
Technology has entirely shaped the way we connect with our loved ones. Even the love languages we use to express our affection for one another have evolved. From creating playlists to cute memes, visuals, and so much more, there is absolutely no end to how creative you can get with your expression of love.
More Information
With plenty of therapists and long-term couples sharing advice and tips online, social media has made it easier for everyone wanting to improve their relationship to find information. Back then, your only options were to buy a book or go to therapy, but nowadays, you are only a click away from healthy communication courses and other incredible material.
More Help
Social media also made it easier to ask for help when needed. These platforms have brought more awareness to serious issues, including domestic, physical, and psychological abuse. On top of this, people can now find plenty of help, for instance, by contacting local organizations working with victims of these types of trauma.
Help Reignite Romance
Social media can bring some of that spark back into your relationship. A flirty message here, a surprise post there, or even sharing a throwback memory can really light things up. Just remember, these little gestures should boost your connection, not replace the real-life love you share.
Infidelity
These platforms have also redefined our idea of infidelity. Can your partner follow attractive women on social media? Can he chat with them? These questions need to be discussed in advance to ensure you are both on the same page.
Addiction
Social media addiction is real! Just think about it. When was the last time you left your house without your phone? How much time do you spend mindlessly scrolling every day? As with all other forms of addiction, social media addiction can be extremely detrimental for a couple.
Showing Rather Than Feeling
Are you living a real life or an Insta life? Wherever you go on holiday with your partner, do you truly enjoy your time there, or are you merely focusing on taking nice pictures to share on your social media pages? Having offline days with your partner can be a great way to bring your focus back on your relationship.
Jealousy
With so many women and men posting provocative pictures daily, jealousy has never been so real. However, learning how to deal with it constructively is crucial for long-term commitment. Establish clear boundaries and give your partner your full trust.
More Relationship Types
Lastly, social media helped bring more awareness about different relationship types. For instance, more and more people are now identifying themselves as polyamorous rather than monogamous, while some married couples have decided to open their weddings to new partners.
Attention Span
If you have several social media accounts, you’ve probably noticed how they affect your attention span. Unfortunately, these platforms are responsible for a general decline in our ability to focus, which may have detrimental consequences for our relationship. Always have your phone in silent mode whenever you spend quality time with your partner.
Memories
Social media has also changed the way we deal with our memories. For instance, when did you last watch an old photo album? If all your photos are exclusively on your social media, printing them may be a good idea so you can always access them, even offline. On the bright side, social media often reminds us of past events, with our beloved ones bringing lovely memories to our minds.
Less Spontaneity
On the negative side, social media have drastically reduced our spontaneity levels. When did you last go to a restaurant before reading its reviews on Google Maps? The last time you went to a cinema without checking the movies available? The last time you went for a car trip without booking anything in advance? If you miss spontaneity in your relationship, try to bring it back!
More For You
Did you like our offline day tip? Why not turn it into an offline holiday then? For instance, you can take a plane to Vancouver, Canada, to create new, exciting memories with your spouse.
This article was first published on the RB ITALIA Blog.
