The Impact of Smartphones and Pandemic on Couples Therapy

Core Concepts

Smartphones and the pandemic have significantly impacted couples' relationships, leading to increased stress and challenges in communication.

Abstract

Couples therapy expert highlights the detrimental effects of smartphones on relationships and the added pressure from the pandemic. The shift towards renegotiating power dynamics within couples is emphasized, along with the importance of seeking preventative care in therapy.

Stats

"I’ve been doing couples and family therapy for over twenty-five years."
"Two years into the pandemic, something shifted. That’s when I was getting inundated with people who were in crisis and on the brink of divorce."
"Especially for younger generations, it seems to be much more normalized to go to therapy."
"And when the house is already on fire, the ­only thing a therapist can do is get out the fire extinguisher."

Quotes

"I think it’ll be coming in the next year or two, maybe three, especially for couples with ­younger kids who lost time in school, or people who lost their jobs or had to start new careers."
"Instead of saying we’re returning to normal, start asking, “What are we creating that’s going to work and be healthy for couples, families, and kids?”"
"If there’s a silver lining, it’s that the pandemic has shone a light on mental health awareness."

Key Insights Distilled From

As a Therapist, I Know What’s Breaking Couples Up | The Walrus

by Andrew Sofin at thewalrus.ca 05-26-2023

https://thewalrus.ca/what-breaks-up-couples/

Deeper Inquiries

How can couples navigate power dynamics effectively during times of crisis?

During times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, couples may experience shifts in power dynamics due to changes in work situations, childcare responsibilities, and overall stress levels. To navigate these challenges effectively, communication is key. Couples should openly discuss their feelings, concerns, and needs to ensure that both partners feel heard and valued. It's important to establish a sense of teamwork and mutual support rather than falling into traditional gender roles or assumptions. Setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and sharing responsibilities can help maintain a sense of balance and equality within the relationship.

What role does technology play in shaping modern relationships?

Technology, particularly smartphones and instant communication tools, has significantly impacted modern relationships. While technology can enhance connectivity and convenience, it also poses challenges by creating distractions, reducing face-to-face interactions, and contributing to misunderstandings. In many cases, smartphones have become a source of conflict within relationships as individuals prioritize screen time over meaningful conversations with their partners. Therapists often observe that excessive use of technology can lead to feelings of neglect or disconnection among couples. It's crucial for partners to set boundaries around technology usage and prioritize quality time together without digital distractions.

How can therapists encourage preventative care rather than reactive interventions?

Therapists can promote preventative care by encouraging couples to seek therapy at the earliest signs of relationship issues rather than waiting until they reach a breaking point. By normalizing therapy as a proactive tool for maintaining relationship health, therapists can help clients address underlying issues before they escalate into crises. Therapists should educate clients on the benefits of regular check-ins and communication strategies that foster emotional intimacy and understanding. Additionally, therapists can provide resources for self-care practices, stress management techniques, and healthy coping mechanisms to prevent conflicts from escalating. By emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance in relationships, therapists can empower couples to prioritize their mental health and well-being proactively.