Is social media screen time healthy for my relationships or family? Use of social media has become a popular, and controversial topic, especially given higher reports of use during the quarantine related to Covid-19. Any choice is likely to have pros and cons, so let’s take a look at the positives and negatives of social media on connection.

POSITIVES

1. Communication: Communication builds relationships, and increased communication is a positive between family members. Busy lifestyles can make it difficult to stay in touch, and social media can help families share memories together.
2. Involvement: Increased involvement in each other’s lives sends a positive message of caring. This can lead to deeper follow-up conversations outside of social media use. Sharing experiences can increase connection and understanding between family members.
3. Outside opinions: Social media provides a perspective of what it is like to not be you. It can be a source of positive news and hope. Families can use social media as a starting block to discuss serious issues or bring up topics.
4. Identity: Family videos and photos can be a positive way to affirm family connections.

NEGATIVES

1. Less Family Time: Individual time viewing social media and disconnecting with immediate family around you decreases communication. Additionally, social media use focused on news may increase divides among family members.
2. “Highlight reel effect”: Family members may compare their experiences to the “highlights” shared by other families, which can promote unrealistic comparisons.
3. Negative mood: Scrolling through social media when sad or lonely can increase these negative moods. Social media use can lead to feelings of disconnection, anxiety, or depression.

The benefits and consequences of social media use are best examined within each family, as use and influence of social media can have differing impacts on mood and relationships. It is possible all family members could benefit from less disconnected screen time, and more connection with authentic relationships and experiences. Ask your family members, how does social media improve or interfere with our relationships?

 Jennifer Parks, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in couples and family therapy who enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families