Negative Impact Of Digital Communication On Relationships

Question 1

Turkle

Answer 1

• critical about norm breaking behaviour and the use
  of phones e.g. in work meetings, classrooms and at funerals
• states that we are increasingly ‘Alone Together’ - She says that families and friends are denying each other attention, stating that phones are a distraction that pose a risk to relationships and identities
• discusses that ‘Goldilocks effect’ meaning that we are using our phones whilst choosing to ‘opt in and opt out’ of social interactions to a level that we deem ‘just right’ - Therefore meaning we are not fully engaging in real life interactions

Question 2

Miller

Answer 2

• The Why We Post project, conducted by Miller for UCL found evidence of:
  1. Superficial Interactions - While social media allows for more frequent interactions, these can often be shallow; stating that likes, comments, and emojis can’t replace face-to-face conversations
  2. Increased Surveillance & Jealousy - Social media can increase tensions in relationships - They “monitored” their partners, friends, or family members and this “surveillance culture” did at times lead to the ‘breakdown’ of relationships between couples

Question 3

Well man

Answer 3

• Highlights negative effects on relationships
• In his text called “Networked Individualism” and argues that digital communication shifts people from tight-knit community relationships (e.g., neighborhood or workplace bonds) to more fragmented, individualised networks
• Similar to Turkle’s argument, he points out that constant digital engagement can be a distraction and cause reduced attention in face-to-face interactions
• can create social fragmentation, where people are physically present but mentally absent, absorbed in their devices