Technology strengthens relationships

Technology strengthens relationships

Over the last decade, technology has revolutionized the way people interact with each other. Unlike the early days when there was no internet, today people can connect more easily and almost instantaneously. Although some people may paint technology as the gateway to the erosion of morals that often leads to ruined relationships, the society has also benefitted from technological platforms, such as the internet, that aim to strengthen human interactions. As such, technology has numerous benefits that have strengthened relationships by making long-distance interactions workable through effective and instant communication, enhancing how people keep and retrieve memories, and promoting partnerships through the improved capacity to share and express individual or corporate interests.

Firstly, technology makes it easy to communicate with people at different geographical locations, thereby making long-distance relationships workable. In previous times, maintaining contact with people over a long distance was limited to the use of letters and fax, which was slow and costly. Currently, the advanced development of both hardware devices and software programs, such as smartphones that have apps like Skype, have made it possible for people to exchange information almost instantly regardless of the distance. Indeed, relationships are founded on strong and effective communication, without which most people find it challenging to work together [1]. Thus, the development of communication systems has provided an opportunity for partners to remain connected in real-time.

Secondly, technology offers tools for keeping memories and retrieving stored data for future reference. With the development of digital gadgets, such as high-resolution cameras and memory cards, people can take clear, high-quality pictures and videos of events. As such, both regular and occasional events like weddings or family gatherings can be recorded and stored in electronic form for future reference. Memories are regarded as essential elements that can contribute to the smooth running of a relationship. According to a study by the University of North Carolina Greensboro, memories are crucial for solving relationship problems [2]. Keeping records of events in a relationship is, therefore, key in sustaining a relationship.

Finally, technology reinforces partnerships by promoting avenues that create a better understanding among people. For instance, technology allows people to freely express their personalities to a vast majority of viewers or listeners almost effortlessly. Furthermore, technological advancement, such as the internet which allows blogging and networking, has enabled people to share information about their beliefs, likes, or dislikes. The opinions posted on such platforms act as an introductory guide to understanding people’s personalities. For instance, employers looking for prospective employees often conduct online searches on individuals to get essential information concerning their identities or to verify their genuine interests [3]. Having such information is vital, especially for those starting up a work-related relationship.

In conclusion, technology enhances human interactions by facilitating communication among people regardless of time and location, allowing the storage of memorable events, and enabling people to express their interests, opinions, and beliefs. Nevertheless, technology can also contribute to social ills and the destruction of relationships through moral degradation by people with wrong motives. However, when correctly implemented, technology can help to overcome the obstacles of time and space and can be an excellent means of initiating and sustaining healthy relationships.

References

[1] Stafford L, Hillyer JD. Information and communication technologies in personal relationships. Review of Communication. 2012 October 1;12(4):290-312.

[2] Emily C. Measuring the Impact of Technology on Couple Relationships: The Development of the Technology and Intimate Relationship Assessment. Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy 2015; 14 (3): 254-276

[3] Bart P. This is How Technology is Affecting Your Relationship[online] 2018 [cited 2020, April 2]: Available: https://sites.psu.edu/ist110pursel/2018/02/15/this-is-how-technology-is-affecting-your-relationship/