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Relationship difficulties and "technoference" during the COVID-19 pandemic
Giulia Zoppolat1, Francesca Righetti1, Rhonda N Balzarini2
1Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Social and Personal Relationships
|November 9, 2022
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic increased screen time, leading to more conflict and less satisfaction in romantic relationships. This highlights how digital engagement challenges couples during stressful times.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Communication Studies
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global lifestyles and interpersonal dynamics.
- Anecdotal evidence suggested adverse effects on romantic relationships, necessitating empirical investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically examine the relationship between COVID-19 related challenges and romantic relationship quality.
- To investigate the mediating role of increased screen time (phone and social media use) in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Two large-scale studies (N = 3271) employed repeated measures and longitudinal designs.
- Participants reported on COVID-19 related challenges, personal and partner phone use, social media engagement, relationship conflict, and satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Experiencing pandemic-related challenges correlated with increased self and partner phone use and social media time.
- Elevated screen time was subsequently associated with higher levels of relationship conflict and lower relationship satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Increased screen time, driven by pandemic-induced lifestyle changes, poses a significant challenge to romantic relationship quality.
- Findings underscore the need to address digital habits within couples, particularly during periods of stress and societal disruption.
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