We’re a nation of social media snoopers, according to research into online activity among couples, with 30% of people admitting to spying on their partner’s social media profiles.
And it’s having a negative impact on relationships, as highlighted by a leading law firm.
A poll conducted by Gorvins Solicitors’ family team revealed that more than one in two couples (56%) have experienced friction in their relationship due to posts seen on their partner’s social media platforms.
Social Media and Infidelity: A Growing Concern
It’s unsurprising that partners are becoming increasingly wary of each other’s social media activity, as one in ten (12%) admitted to connecting with someone online, which ultimately led to infidelity.
Men are reportedly the worst offenders, with 16% admitting to being unfaithful due to a social media connection. However, they are also more likely to spy on their partner’s social media activity (33% compared to 28% of women).
The Legal Impact: Social Media and Divorce
The family team at Gorvins Solicitors has witnessed a notable increase in social media affecting their clients’ relationships. A significant number of divorcees have cited damaging social networking activity in their divorce papers.
Expert Insight from Gorvins Solicitors
Sally Leaman, Partner and Head of Family Law at Gorvins, explains:
“With social media playing a greater role in the development and management of relationships today, it is no surprise that it also features prominently in their breakdown.
Sites like Friends Reunited have certainly had an impact over the past decade. Reconnecting with an old friend can have devastating implications for a current relationship. We’ve also seen numerous instances where individuals have discovered their ex-partner is in a new relationship through their Facebook or Twitter profiles. Social media continues to influence relationships long after they’ve ended.”
Who Is Most Affected by Social Media Infidelity?
As expected, younger generations are more likely to monitor their partner’s social media activity and be unfaithful through online connections. However, the impact isn’t limited to millennials.
Interestingly, those aged 55 and over are also experiencing the strain of social media on their relationships. One-third of this demographic admitted that social media activity had caused friction in their relationships. With this age group being the fastest-growing adopters of social networking, the trend is likely to increase.
How to Protect Your Relationship from Social Media Conflicts
To prevent social media from harming relationships, consider these steps:
- Set boundaries – Discuss acceptable online behaviour with your partner.
- Limit social media time – Spending excessive time online can take focus away from personal relationships.
- Be transparent – Honesty about social media interactions can prevent unnecessary conflicts.
- Avoid reconnecting with ex-partners – Nostalgic conversations can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.
Need Legal Advice on Relationship Issues?
If your relationship has been impacted by social media and you need legal advice, get in touch with Gorvins Solicitors’ family team. Call 0161 930 5151 for expert support.