Social Media: A Leading Factor in Divorce
In the digital age, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms have become a significant factor in divorce cases. It has often been cited as the direct cause of marriage problems by one or both marital partners. Any relationship can be impacted by suspicion, disconnected behavior, and jealousy, but when the source of trouble is the computer in the next room, removing that source is difficult.
Michigan marriages are just as likely to be affected by social media as any others. Some of the reasons behind social media driven divorces are obvious, such as interaction with old love interests. Although most connections with old girl or boyfriends may be innocent enough, there is always the chance that a spark may appear. However, if they aren’t so innocent you will want a good Grand Rapids divorce attorney to help guide you through the
Old Friends, New Links
Even when a renewed friendship is completely innocent, it may not appear that way to a marital partner. Divorce lawyers may also review social media content for evidence in a divorce case. Inside jokes and old sayings can be seen as flirtatious or can be taken out of context. Social media activity with an old flame can often lead to either physical or emotional connections and could be viewed as emotional infidelity or cheating.
Twitter, Instagram, and especially Facebook also contribute to marital instability in other ways. Social media has been shown to trigger some of the same effects in the brain as narcotics, which may lead to addictive behaviors.
Too Much Time on My Hands
The snowy West Michigan winters can drive people to look for entertainment indoors, and the Internet provides an endless distraction. However, too much time spent on social media, especially Facebook, may leave a marital partner feeling less important or ignored.
Shared pictures have also been a source of trouble for many married couples. Inappropriate photos that appear in a partner’s timeline can lead to suspicion and distrust, especially when they come from an old love interest. Even if the pictures don’t appear in a husband or wife’s Facebook timeline, rumors and misconceptions can arise from the content when it appears in a mutual friend’s account.
Believe Half of What You See
Marital issues can also arise over mistrust when one spouse uses social media to monitor the other’s behavior. Fights over social media have become commonplace for many couples, often caused by use or misuse by either spouse and how that activity is interpreted by their partner.
It is easy to take what you see or read out of context and jump to conclusions that are not actually true. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have taken over as communication mediums, and even news platforms, but you must consider the source, or the situation, before buying into the story they tell.
Let us help with any questions or concerns. For more information or advice please contact Johnsen Wikander today.
