Since the beginning of time, relationships have been established through face to face communication. But as technology evolves, the need for in-person communication has been diminished. From Facebook to Twitter to Instagram to texting, social media and technology has led to a decrease in face-to-face communication. Social media’s effects often go unnoticed; however, they can impact even the most personal parts of life, such as relationships. With the plethora of available dating apps and social media platforms, it has become increasingly easier to construct relationships behind a screen. However, these technologically influenced relationships come with a cost; the relationships cultivated are often under intense scrutiny and are hard to end.

Social media outlets allow instant communication. Although social media proves to be beneficial when keeping up with old friends, it can also be tumultuous for relationships. Social media often stresses relationships by portraying unrealistic expectations about relationships entitled “relationship goals.” These depictions often show pictures of extravagant gestures and actions that one’s significant other does. This then leads to comparisons of people’s current relationships to the “goals” the picture shows, causing unnecessary tension to uphold the level of “greatness.” Social media also can lead to unnecessary jealousy among each other. Everything done in social media today can be monitored by anyone. Social media allows people to stalk and see what his/her significant other is liking and posting, which could lead to complications such as “Why did you favorite her selfie?”or “Why are you liking his tweets?” These actions create a whole other level of jealousy, adding to the unnecessary tension. Social media is just another contributor to making relationships more difficult than it should be.

Another negative aspect of technology on relationships is that it never provides individuals with the space they need post-breakup.  Social media can also be deceiving; people put the best version of themselves out on the internet, which can generate a lot of stress. Technology is an outlet for heartbroken individuals to view their ex’s posts and status updates, which make it harder for relationships to heal. Dating has almost become a game of who can get over the breakup the fastest. People believe that the other person has an exciting, fun life and is doing fine post-breakup. This lack of space and idealization of real life is unhealthy and forces us to connect with one another whether we want to or not.

Social media and technology can be an outlet for expression and a way to communicate with friends. However, when it comes to relationships, social media can be a stress factor. The internet does not let relationships go dormant. Between comparing yourself to others’ relationships and experiencing jealousy, to trying to impress others by exploiting your relationship, social media in one’s love life is better off limited.