January 6, 2016
What less time on social media means for relationships in 2016
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — For all those who resolve to spend less time on social media in 2016, here is what that means, say experts from Purdue University.
"While technology helps us communicate with loved ones far away, these personal devices have impeded our ability to have conversations, to meet new people and have more meaningful face-to-face relationships," says Glenn Sparks, a professor in the Brian Lamb School of Communication and co-author of "Refrigerator Rights: Our Crucial Need for Close Connection."
Nearly 45 million Americans move each year, and when people relocate, technology is interfering with the capacity to have engagement and build face-to-face friendships.
"Because people are constantly checking their phones, the art of conversation is lost," Sparks says. "They have less practice in carrying on casual conversations and have a hard time meeting people. While technology helps keep in contact with those far away, there is not the same emotional closeness."
This also is compounded by fewer community gathering spaces and declining memberships in community and religious organizations.
"Lack of supportive relationships have profound effects on our physical health," says Will, Miller, co-author of "Refrigerator Rights." "People report more stress than ever before, and it's due in part to the lack of meaningful connections in our lives."
For those attempting to reduce social media, here are tips to find meaningful relationships.
* Visit or join a community organization. There are many religious options as well as volunteer opportunities.
* Practice small talk. Make an effort to chat with people. It will take time, so be patient.
* Silence personal devices when around others so you are not interrupted.
"Refrigerator Rights" was published in 2002, and a second edition was recently released.
Sparks is an expert in mass media effects including media violence, scary TV images and how communication technologies affect interpersonal relationships. Miller, an instructor in the Brian Lamb School of Communication, is a mental health expert who also was an on-air spokesman for Nick-at-Night and host of NBC's "The Other Side."
Writer: Amy Patterson Neubert, 765-494-9723, apatterson@purdue.edu
Sources: Glenn Sparks, gsparks@purdue.edu
Will Miller, drwill@purdue.edu
Related website:
