The impact of social networks and messengers on communication

Social networks have become an integral part of our lives. While they were initially popular mainly among young people for entertainment, today older generations also find it hard to imagine their daily routines without scrolling through social media feeds and chatting with friends. The daily use of social networks influences our face-to-face communication, bringing both positive and negative effects.

How social networks affect everyday communication

Social networks provide not only a platform for virtual communication but also a source of various content: photos, music, and memes. Thanks to social media, new expressions and phrases enter our speech, and witty images often find their way into emails and work chats.

Users of social networks report the following influences on their lives and interactions:

• A tendency to use phrases and jokes from social media in conversations.
• Adding emojis in handwritten notes, letters, or study materials.
• A habit of starting the day by checking social media feeds and chats.
• Preferring to message rather than call to resolve issues.

Many people struggle to put their phones down, constantly checking screens for updates and notifications.

The effects of social media on health

Constant engagement with social media affects both physical and mental health:

• Sleep problems: Late-night scrolling overstimulates the mind, leading to poor-quality sleep. People may struggle to fall asleep, wake up during the night, and feel tired in the morning.
• Increased anxiety: Frequent messenger alerts create a habit of responding immediately, leaving users in a state of constant vigilance, always expecting an important message.
• Vision problems: Extended screen time strains eye muscles and reduces visual acuity.

Doctors recommend limiting screen time to no more than two hours a day, but many exceed this by two or three times, often citing work-related communication or participation in group chats as reasons.

Why social networks replace face-to-face communication

With the rise of social media, many people feel burdened by in-person communication. Individuals who are witty and engaging in text conversations may become shy and unsure in real-life interactions. This phenomenon can be explained by the fact that online conversations allow for pauses to think through responses, whereas real-life dialogue requires immediate formulation of thoughts. Additionally, online chats can be paused or ended at will, while face-to-face interactions demand continuous engagement.

Finding balance between social media and face-to-face interaction

To ensure social media doesn’t interfere with real-life connections or lead to disconnection from reality, it’s important to limit time spent on social networks and messengers. For example:

• Avoid excessive nighttime social media use to prevent overstimulation and get quality rest.
• Make an effort to meet social media friends in person, engaging in activities like attending events, taking walks, or sharing hobbies.

Psychologists recommend a digital detox once a month, abstaining from the internet and social media for a full day. This practice helps reset the mind, filter out unnecessary information, and achieve inner balance. It’s advisable to notify colleagues and close friends about the planned break to prevent worry.

Should teenagers use social media?

For teenagers, social media use should always be monitored by parents. Parents have the right to connect with their children on social platforms to observe their online activity. While reading private messages is unnecessary, keeping an eye on who the teenager interacts with and adds as friends is part of parental responsibility. Setting limits on social media usage and taking smartphones away at night can help prevent internet addiction.

Where else can you make friends besides social media?

Many platforms, such as wedaf.com, provide opportunities to meet new people. Diversifying the resources used for virtual communication can make online interactions more engaging. Every platform offers the chance to connect with interesting individuals and expand your social circle.

Social networks are a powerful tool for staying connected, but balancing their use with real-life interactions and practicing mindful online habits ensures healthier and more fulfilling communication.