Managing Relational Disconnection in a Connected World
Posted on by Destiny Girard, LMFT
Today’s society offers each of us the world at our fingertips through the use of smart phones, tablets, computers, smart watches and any other new technologies that may arise. Being a part of a very connected world offers new opportunities for us to meet people and begin relationships in ways never before imagined. We are able to get acquainted with people that we may never have otherwise met and technology allows us to spend more time getting to know people without spending hours on the phone or needing a face to face interaction.
However, once the relationship has begun, some of these technologies that allowed a couple to meet, are the very things that may begin to pull them apart. We become available at all times and to all people, through text messages, phone calls, e-mails and notifications, making it difficult to spend time with our loved one sans interruption. Work issues bleed into time at home; friends turn to us at all hours for both emergent and non-emergent issues; Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn send notifications on every move being made on social media.
Over the course of time, this can and will have a negative impact on most couples, as it begins to get in the way of spending quality time together. The constant interruptions make it difficult to truly connect with your spouse and be present with one another in the moment. If nothing is done to remedy the situation, the relationship may become one lacking the emotional intimacy and closeness that both partners ultimately want. And so, in the best interest of your relationship and your family, put down your phone, computer, tablet or any other device that may be preoccupying your attention at home. Instead, spend that time communicating with your spouse and truly enjoying the time that you have with them. Take the time to play, have fun, be intimate, review finances, plan for your future or discuss a serious issue that you’ve been delaying. Your relationship will thank you.
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