Social media is an integral part of modern life and love because it helps people connect and maintain relationships. However, these platforms may adversely affect communication skills, trust, and satisfaction in a romantic partnership, creating conflict between you and your significant other. Here's what to know about navigating this part of your relationship and how to work it out.

How Social Media Negatively Affects Relationships

Social media may decrease trust and satisfaction and increase insecurity and conflicts in relationships. In a study of 24,000 married couples, participants who used more than five social networks reported a 14% decrease in marriage satisfaction. Another study found a correlation between high social media use and conflicts among couples who were together for less than three years.

Common Mistakes Couples Make With Social Media

Oversharing

While you may want to share everything about your life, your partner may prefer privacy. This is problematic if one person shares details about the relationship, broadcasting disagreements or dissatisfaction. Alternatively, if another couple overshares positive aspects of their relationship, you may unknowingly compare yours to theirs, resulting in less satisfaction.

Lack of Presence

Social media can affect communication skills and detract from present, personal interactions. For example, you may feel ignored if your partner is constantly checking their notifications, scrolling, and posting.

Monitoring Their Partner's Activity

While you can view your partner's profile to see what they’re doing online, you should trust their actions. Don't routinely check their likes and comments several times a day or read their private messages; this is an invasion of privacy and may start a conflict.

How Couples Can Navigate Social Media Healthily

Remember that online personas aren't always an accurate depiction of a user's life, and social media isn’t a substitute for face-to-face interactions. Put all devices away while with your partner to encourage presence and quality time. You can also budget a certain number of hours a day to check your profiles or delete the account altogether.

If you’re having difficulty striking a healthy balance, a couple’s counselor can help you develop better communication skills. For guidance on having a healthier interaction with social media, turn to Counseling Solutions Of Alaska in Anchorage. These skilled counselors will listen to your current situation, then develop effective strategies to create boundaries with your platforms. Get more information about their services online, or call (907) 644-8044 to schedule an appointment.