How Social Media Affects Tangible Relationships & Social Interaction

In the past few years I have noticed that the way my generation communicates with each other is changing compared to the older generation. Recent technological innovations such as social media sites are said to have directly changed the way we communicate and how we communicate. According to Charles Blow of friends, neighbors, and Facebook authors, "Social networks are changing our relationship, our keyboard community has an impact on our actual relationship" (1). However, research shows that social media not only changes specific relationships, but also changes the behavior of those who use the media.

Social media is a controversial topic in today's society. Some people think social media may confuse interactions between people and interpersonal relationships in real life. Others believe that social media is a benefit to mankind. Social media makes dialogue with humans more convenient and faster than real dialogue, making globalization a reality.

Social media is defined by its interactivity, connectivity, and user generated content. In today's society, the use of social media is a necessary activity on a daily basis. Social media is often used for social interaction, access to news and information, and decision making. It is a valuable communication tool for local and global people as well as sharing, creating and disseminating information. Social media influences consumer purchasing decisions through reviews, marketing strategies, advertisements. Essentially, social media has a great impact on communication, relationship formation, access to and dissemination of information, and ability to make the best decisions.

Understanding how social media influences our relationships may limit social media interactions to interactions that support real world relationships. Instead of going through a series of undone posts or passively scrolling, such as what our intent is, we can stop ourselves and make some important questions. How will this online field affect my and my relationships? When I answered my friend, "We may decide that social media may stay here - but you have to decide on your own whether to stay on it, and if so do." As Christakis stated, "online social interactions can not replace reality", and personal and healthy relationships are important for society and our own personal well-being. Rather than put all the eggs in the basket of social media, I remember this truth well.