"How is my Family Doing Today?" My Insight on Social Media and Relationships

"Effects of Increasing Digital Connections on Relationships and Community" on the NPR-based Diane Rehm Show discussed the decline of face-to-face interaction because of avid social media usage. Radio show guest Marc Dunkelman,  Susan Pinker and Zeynep Tufeci discuss with Rehm their insight on research and observation the effect social media has on personal relationships. 

Tufeci explained that social media usage helps to build up the "middle relationships," which are acquaintances. She also talks about how social media users generally keep up on family members.  This is what I use social media for, especially Facebook. I know if my sister is having a good day or a bad day at work, what my mom's plans are for the weekend, or what new Internet meme my brother is laughing at.  I also like to read where my cousins are going on vacation or see pictures of their kids, especially since I don't get to visit with them very often.

Introverts benefit from social media use, Pinker mentions. I am pretty introverted and social media gives me an outlet to interact with people. When I interact face-to-face, I have a post about a favorite band that I can build a conversation off of, for example. When I meet new people, connecting on social media lets me keep in touch with people I enjoyed interacting with when I was out and about. Social media has helped me network and keep in touch with people I have met at my job, too.

Dunnkelman discussed that social media has dwindled personal interaction. I disagree. In fact, I find it is quite the opposite for me. I have met up with friends from high school who I haven't seen in over ten years. Via Facebook, I know they are going to be in town. I will post a comment, "Hey! Let's meet up for coffee." I always get a reply and a coffee date. Many of my Facebook friends are local musicians. When they have shows, I know when and when they are playing because of the Facebook invites. I can plan to go and see a show, because I have the information.

At some point, I do agree that Facebook can be detrimental to our social interactions, but if it is used as the only means of social interaction. The key is to use it to compliment one's personal relationships.