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Screen Time Can Actually Strengthen Teen Relationships
In a chat with the lead researcher of a fascinating study, Sarah Thompson, she pointed out that “[m]any teenagers may not have the option to be physically present with their friends […] The online world allows them to connect and expand their social circles even when meeting in person is not possible.” Surprisingly, 57% of teens have formed new friendships online instead of in their immediate surroundings, and 29% have made more than five online friends. However, only 20% of those who’ve made online connections have met those friends in real life. The good news? Teens feel quite satisfied with this situation; they report feeling connected to their friends’ lives and emotions—key indicators of healthy relationships. Sarah shares that “[68]% of teens using social media feel that their friends support them during tough times.”
Honestly, if there’s anyone who understands teenagers’ inclination to socialize online, it’s moms. Back in my own teenage years and early adulthood, my social life revolved around in-person gatherings: dinner outings, parties, and the occasional ski trip. Sure, I used texting and emails, but for meaningful conversations that foster close friendships, I always met up for coffee or a drink.
Once I became a mom, my social life faced new challenges: nap times, early bedtimes, and now the school calendar along with various commitments that come with having a school-aged kid. But moms crave connection too! Where I once sought face-to-face interaction, I turned to online platforms for support: emails, social media, and chat rooms. It’s not a perfect substitute (nothing beats lounging on a friend’s couch with a glass of wine), but it helps fill the void when real-life connections are scarce.
Teens are figuring out how to make the best of their situations as well. Whether distance, after-school activities, or a lack of safe hangout spots keep them apart, they can still check in with each other online, chat, and share their thoughts—just like we used to do at the boardwalk or pizza shop.
That said, managing social lives online does come with its own set of downsides. Teens are just as susceptible to feelings of hurt or envy as adults. For instance, seeing a social media post of friends hanging out without them can sting, or misunderstandings over a text can lead to typical teenage drama.
In conclusion, no teenager’s social life is devoid of conflict, whether online or in-person. Kids are learning to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, and a little drama—whether it emerges from a screen, phone, or face-to-face—seems inevitable. It’s comforting to know that some of our concerns about social isolation and poor social skills might be unfounded. I think I’ll pop online and share this with my friends!
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