The impact of social media on divorce
Social media has had a positive impact on our society. Our lives have become easier. Almost everything we want to know is quickly at the end of a mouse click. We save time and effort by ordering products and planning trips online. We easily catch up with friends on numerous social media sites. But there is also a downside …
Media and relationships
Research has found that these sites can negatively impact relationships and may even contribute to divorce. A spouse can spend so much time that they neglect family time and damage relationships. There is a temptation to find ex-girlfriends or boyfriends and the connection could trigger past feelings and / or start an affair. A recent study in the journal, Computers in Human Behavior, used information gleaned from US Facebook accounts and found a link between social media use and declining quality of marriage. The study showed:
The use of social media is negatively correlated with the quality and happiness of the marriage, and it is positively correlated with experiencing a troubled relationship and thinking about divorce.
A twenty percent annual increase in Facebook enrollment was associated with a 2.18% to 4.32% increase in divorce rates.
The reasons cited for these purposes refer to “virtual adultery” and “infidelity on the Internet” as one of the culprits. Electronic communication can make users feel more open and free in their communication with others. It can be done anonymously and is easy to use to run an adventure.
Social media used as evidence in divorce and custody proceedings
What you say can be used against you. A recent survey by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers showed that nearly 99% of its member attorneys have seen an increase in evidence taken from smartphones (including text messages) and other wireless devices over the past three years. All were used to prove infidelity and other types of misconduct in family law cases.
What not to post
While you’re married, even if a divorce seems likely, avoid putting your partner down on social media or using your Facebook page to vent about your relationship. If you need to vent, confide in a trusted personal friend in private or talk to a counselor or therapist. Passing on marital clothing, even to your “friends list,” can make things worse and could be used against you if you file for divorce. Bottom line: If you are considering a divorce, even if you plan to file for divorce online and expect it to be friendly, take some precautions on social media.