Social media : its influence on couple dynamics among university students

Abstract

Social media has rapidly been taking over everyone’s lives, including their professional and romantic relationships. This research investigates the impact of social media on the couple relationship dynamic. Four participants who are currently in a romantic relationship took part in this study and semi-structured interviews were individually conducted. Participants elaborated on how they feel that social media has impacted their view on romantic relationships, and their current intimate relationship. By using thematic analysis, elicited were four themes from the data set which were: Invasion, Closing the Gap, Insecurity and Miscommunication. Social media is used for various purposes by partners and it may provide a way of keeping in touch when meeting up is not possible. Unfortunately, it is not always sunshine and rainbows, as when social media is used in each other’s presence, it takes away the possibility to engage and be in the moment with the other partner, therefore the couple’s quality time is lessened. Whilst access to social media provides the couple the opportunity look-up activities to do together, sometimes spending time away from it and bonding with the partner is more valuable.