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Social Media Making People Less Social

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Technological advancements have reached dizzying heights in the 21st century. The internet, along with devices such as computers and smartphones, has revolutionized the manner in which we conduct and maintain our interpersonal relationships. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, et cetera opened new avenues to connect with friends and family and new people. However, studies in recent years have revealed that social media has detrimental effects on our daily interactions. This essay argues that while social media may alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness, it also increases unsocial behavior and social isolation.

Social isolation is defined as a state in which an individual “lacks a sense of belonging socially, lacks engagement with others” (Nicholson Jr. 1346), and has an absence of fulfilling relationships. A study conducted in 2017 among 1,787 youths in the US found that increased social media use could be directly associated with an increase in perceived social isolation (Primack et al.). Obsessive use of social media – constantly checking and scrolling through multiple platforms – means spending less time with people in one’s physical environment. Furthermore, the convenience of social media makes it easier to avoid people by sending a quick message or posting online. One can also simply check other people’s profiles to be kept abreast of their well-being. This leads to deteriorating interpersonal relationships and disconnects from one’s material reality.

Engagement with social media can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it allows us to stay connected, meet like-minded people with similar interests, reach out to people to seek solace in times of loneliness and depression. However, it cannot substitute for fulfilling and intimate relationships in real life, leading to further isolation.