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Does social media mean less sociability, and more divorce?

by | Jul 16, 2014 | Divorce, Firm News |

Social media has really taken off over the last few years, with pages such as Facebook and Twitter leading the field. There is no doubt that residents in California and across the United States are finding that keeping in touch — and communication in general — is easier than ever before. It also makes reuniting with long-lost family and friends far easier, as evidenced by various heartwarming stories that have appeared in the news. Recent studies appear to show a correlation between the increased use of such sites and increasing divorce rates.

While it is impossible to say categorically that there is a definite link between the two, the figures certainly suggest that there is. There may be many people who, upon making the decision to divorce, change their social lives in a significant way — either by making new friends, or looking up old ones. By the same token, people who are unhappy within their marriage may find their decision swaying, between making the leap or staying put. Some may turn to social media to test the water or garner support to bolster their confidence.

In either instance, the increasing use of social media can facilitate friendships and romance, which can have a significant impact on one’s current relationship status. While California state laws do not cite the necessity for blame to be apportioned in divorce proceedings, some people do feel strongly that their relationships are adversely affected by the latest developments in social interaction. If one believes that to be true, can they turn it to their own advantage?

One thing which seems to be common to all social media is that people typically post without self-censorship. Everything from what one has for breakfast, to how drunk one intends to — or did — get, may be posted freely and openly — often without a second thought. If one still has the ability to see what their spouse posts online, it can offer clues — if not complete incrimination — to behaviors, actions or intentions. With appropriate advice and guidance, one may find that such information may be a useful tool for their own case during own their divorce proceedings.

Source: marketwatch.com, “Does Facebook break up marriages?“, Quentin Fottrell, July 13, 2014

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