Posted on Jul 07, 2013

Yet again, researchers have correlated the use of social networking site Facebook with relationship difficulties and divorce. Following a 2012 study that found Facebook was a factor in one out of three new divorces, this most recent study found that those who regularly check Facebook often suffer from negative relationship outcomes. 

The study, which was published in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, surveyed over 200 Facebook users between the ages of 18 and 82. The survey asked the participants how often they used Facebook and how their Internet usage affected their current and past romantic partners (about eight out of ten people in the study were currently in relationships). Researchers found that those who checked Facebook more than once an hour reported more issues in their relationships, including breakups and divorces. The longer the relationship, however, the less likely it was to be affected by social media consumption. Those who had only been in relationships for three years or less were most likely to experience Facebook-related conflicts. 

Generally, the more time a person spent on Facebook, the more likely they were to experience conflict with their spouse or partner. 

The study, which was led by Russell Clayton at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, found that those who used Facebook more also monitored their partner’s use of Facebook more—actions that often led to jealousy and control issues. In addition, Facebook use also sometimes led to partners connecting with new people or reconnecting with old romantic partners. 

Clayton suggested that the study could help couples avoid divorce and conflict simply by limiting time spent on Facebook—and interactions with others on Facebook. 

Whether or not your Washington divorce was influenced by social media, you may need a Seattle family attorney at your side. Contact Molly B. Kenny today: 425-460-0550.

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