A new study has shown that using twitter and other social networking sites can be linked to relationship conflict and divorce.
A new study has shown that using twitter and other social networking sites can be linked to relationship conflict and divorce.581 Twitter users took part in the survey which was carried out by Russell Clayton, a researcher at the University of Missouri.
Each participant was asked if their use of social media had effected their relationships. The results were very interesting.
Clayton found that the more active the Twitter users were, the more likely they were to have had arguments with their partner, regardless of the length of the couple’s relationship.
I contrast, an earlier study by Clayton revealed that over use of Facebook could have a detrimental effect on relationships, but that it was most likely to affect newer couples – those who had been together for three years or less.
The media psychology specialist commented on the findings in his report:
“I found it interesting that active Twitter users experienced Twitter-related conflict and negative relationship outcomes regardless of length of romantic relationship. Couples who reported being in relatively new relationships experienced the same amount of conflict as those in longer relationships.”
He concluded:
“Although a number of variables can contribute to relationship infidelity and separation, social networking site usage, such as Twitter and Facebook use, can be damaging to relationships. Therefore, users should cut back to moderate, healthy levels of Twitter use if they are experiencing Twitter or Facebook-related conflict.’
The study was published in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking.