Social networks are increasing jealousy in pairs: Why and how to fight it?

According to Psychology Today, people who share more from their social networking relationship report they are happier with their partner, and also tend to be more committed.

However, these benefits may have a cost. Throughout our pandemic, more and more of our social interactions have shifted to social networks. In a recent study by the Kinsey Institute, 1 out of 5 participants found that he had been in contact with a former partner during the pandemic. Such changes can contribute to feelings of jealousy in relationships.

Researchers define romantic “gelosia” as responding to the threat of a third party, versus the relationship. We become jealous when we risk losing something we care about, by a potential rival. When left uncontrolled, jealousy can be harmful to relationships and has even been offered as an explanation for the relationship between Facebook use and divorce.

Social networks can cause jealousy because they connect us to a broader network of former or potential partners. Even many of us can still have a former partner, “friend” on Facebook or “followers” in the Instagram. On the other hand, presence on social networks exposes us to vague interactions between our partner and other people. Lacking the context to interpret these interactions, our imagination moves and interprets in various ways. Then, “further checks” in an attempt to ease doubts can actually make things worse.

So how do we break this cycle?

Set limits on the use of social networks, especially during pandemic.

Avoid the desire to spy on your partner.

) If you see anything that's bothering you, tell her.

Direct communication with your partner is likely to be more effective to reduce your uncertainty than a deep dive in their posts on social networks.

In the end, the best and simplest strategy: Take a break and get off the screen.