How the internet and social media affect and shapes romantic relationships

How the internet and social media affect and shapes romantic relations

ABSTRACT                                                                                                                                                                

The study investigated the effects of social media on romantic relationships. Its purpose was to elucidate how the internet and social media influence these relationships and shape their dynamics. The research was conducted using qualitative methods. Sixty participants, 35 women and 25 men residing in Istanbul, were involved, all engaged in romantic relationships via social media channels.

The findings indicated that participants predominantly utilized platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other media tools as effective social networks. It was observed that communication through social media has become a habitual behavior readily accessible to individuals, and the romantic relationship processes developed through social media significantly affect individuals, with virtual connections increasingly integrating into real-life interactions. Consequently, it was determined that relationships formed in the virtual realm and those in the physical world are now intertwined within individuals' romantic relationship experiences. Furthermore, the study found that social media substantially negatively impacts romantic relationships.

Keywords: Social media, Internet effects, Romantic relationships, Influence