Social media platforms are influencing how teenagers navigate romantic relationships.
A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that nearly 80% of teens engage with their romantic interests online, utilizing platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat to connect and communicate.
Experts say that social media provides both opportunities and challenges for teen dating.
“It allows for greater accessibility and faster communication,” psychologist of adolescent behavior Emily Carter said. “However, it can also lead to misunderstandings and unrealistic expectations.”
One trend emerging from the survey is “social media exclusivity,” where teens feel pressured to define their relationships publicly on platforms.
According to 65% of respondents, they believe that being “Instagram official” is an essential step in their relationship. This can lead to anxiety and insecurity, as teens often worry about how their relationships are perceived online.
“First impression that people are on the Internet is not fair, because you don’t know what the person is actually like; just because they post, doesn’t mean that’s who they are,” sophomore Clara Soderquist said.
The swayed opinions people have because of what they post could also have negative effects, with people painting themselves as someone they’re not.
“On Snapchat, you can just add people and start a conversation up and keep talking back and forth,” sophomore Hein Walar said.
People often connect with people on Snapchat and do not meet them in person, causing issues like catfishing.
“Catfishing is difficult because some people pretend to be someone they’re not, and sometimes they get away with it,” Walar said.
Catfishing can also cause issues that put people at risk because you don’t know who you’re talking to. It’s dangerous to meet up with people who you’ve not met in person because you don’t know what they’re like.
The nature of social media can complicate breakups. Carter notes that the option to block or mute an ex can provide a sense of control, but it can also prolong emotional distress.
“Teens are constantly reminded of past relationships through mutual friends’ posts or old pictures,” Carter said.
In response, schools and parents are pushed to engage in conversations about healthy online behavior.
As teen dating continues to evolve online, understanding the impact of social media is essential. While it can enhance connections, it requires a slow approach to ensure that young people have healthy and meaningful relationships in an era of technology.
