Are Your Social Media Habits Hurting Your Relationships?

In this digital age, using technology to keep up with the lives of our loved ones is a given. But how do you ensure your social media habits don’t hurt your relationships?

- Delle Chan

WITH YOUR HUBBY

Do talk to him before posting sensitive information

For instance, he might not be comfortable with you sharing an unflattering photo of him lounging around at home in his boxers. And don’t upload sexy photos of yourself – you never know who might see them.

Do exchange passwords

Sharing passwords signals trust and intimacy between a couple – after all, there shouldn’t be risqué messages to hide. However, it’s perfectly legitimate to want to protect your private conversations with friends, who might not be comfortable having someone else in the know. Talk it over with your partner to make sure you’re both on the same page.

Do put away your phones in each other’s presence

“Don’t let your obsession with checking your social media feeds distract you from spending quality time with your spouse. That status update or tweet can wait,” urges Dr Lim Boon Leng, a psychiatrist at Gleneagles Hospital. So, ditch your phone and reconnect with your other half – having a heart-to-heart conversation is something no amount of ‘likes’ can replicate.

Don't vent your anger online

“It’s never wise to air your dirty laundry with your spouse on social media, whether on your Facebook wall or his. Embarrassing him online will only create more tension and subject your relationship to public scrutiny,” says Dr Lim. Cryptic, passiveaggressive posts don’t help either as they are easily misinterpreted and might fuel the frustration.