As a Purdue University grad, there was no way to be impervious to an education culture rooted in technology, science and engineering. That being said, I have enormous respect and gratitude for technology and even social media sites. It makes life so easy and it’s great to have additional resources to be able to connect with old friends or easily stay in touch with people. But, what is happening to us as a result of how we are using it?
In my work with both couples and singles, I often hear complaints about the use of social media and technology in the context of relationships. Frustration with a partner’s attachment to technology and frequency of use often leaves people feeling disconnected. With my single clients, I hear about how hard it can be for someone longing for a relationship, or recently experiencing a painful breakup or loss, to see all of the seemingly blissful relationships online. And what about the selfies? I don’t think you have to be a therapist to hear complaints about the constant selfie takers. Are we becoming solely focused on ourselves and our external image?