In today's digital age, social media has found itself seamlessly into our lives, transforming the way we communicate and connect. While it has undeniably brought people closer not minding the far distances, the impact of social media on friendships is a topic that merits a closer examination. Today, physical friendships has been are shaped and influenced by the virtual landscapes of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat.
Today's Connectivity
Social media has changed the concept or mode of connectivity, making it easier than ever to stay in touch with friends regardless of geographical locations. Platforms like Facebook, Whatsapp allows users to maintain constant updates about their lives thereby facilitating a sense of continuous connection. From sharing live life events to store of memories, social media has become a digital diary that friends can access at their convenience.
However, this constant connectivity comes with its own set of challenges. The sharer's intentions can be mistaken and inappropriate images can make it's way into the internet which can later come back to hurt the person since social media servers as a store of memories. The popular term social media never forgets comes into play because people can be shamed from their mistakes.
Social media has also reduced the depth of personal connection because we have become accustomed to interacting through posts instead of engaging in meaningful discussions.
The Art of Comparison
One of the most common impacts of social media on friendships can be seen in the culture of subtle comparison among friends that on social media. Platforms centered around visuals such as Instagram, TikTok and Facebook can always presents an environment where friends measure their lives against what they see others post. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy or even resentment which influences the dynamics of friendships.
Most times the lifestyles presented on social media may not accurately be the individual's life of social media. Friends may find themselves grappling with a distorted perception leading to misunderstandings or strained relationships.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and Friendship
Fear of missing out is a phenomenon amplified by social media, since friends post their adventures, accomplishments and social gatherings on the internet others may feel left out or excluded. This often leads to pressure to participate in every available social event to keep up with the latest trends. Also many friends live with the mentality that not posting pictures on social media may result in being left behind which is not always true.
Quality vs. Quantity
Social media allows us to accumulate a large number of online friends which poses the question of whether these online friends or connections translate into meaningful friendships. The emphasis on quantity over quality will lead to dilution of the traditional understanding of deep personal connections. Just as we know that true friendship requires time, effort and a level of vulnerability to build unlike online friendship.
Conclusion
It is important to understand that the impact of social media on friendship is in double angle because It has enhanced connectivity which allows friends to bridge the location barrier and stay informed about each other's lives. However, the aspects of comparison, fear of missing out and frequent superficial connections call for a regulated approach to social media usage.
It is important to prioritize quality friendship over numerous number of online follower's or friendships people use to boast this days. We should rather use social media to bridge the gap in connectivity which occurs in long distance friendships. Off course the authenticity of human connection forms the foundation of lasting friendships