Is Social Media Ruining Romance?

In a world dominated by social media, is all hope lost when it comes to romance?

A couple uses a mobile phone to take a picture of a polaroid that features them, the backdrop is of a park with high-rise buildings over the tree line.
(Image: UNSPLASH)

In a world dominated by social media, it’s hard to ignore how much the perception of love and relationships has shifted. Scrolling through apps like Instagram or TikTok reveals a growing deromanticisation of relationships, particularly among Gen Z. Once cherished as the pinnacle of human connection, romance is increasingly viewed through a lens of scepticism and rules dictated by online trends.

Social media has also transformed dating culture, for better or worse. While apps have broadened our opportunities to meet new people, they’ve also normalised a lack of effort and emotional investment. Courting rituals once seen as basic courtesy have been replaced by ghosting and strictly sexual relations, further diminishing the value placed on genuine connections.

Take the infamous “Three Month Rule” as an example. The common occurrence where relationships become unstable after three months, leading to a potential break-up. It’s not a scientifically proven concept, yet it has infiltrated modern dating discourse, fuelling unnecessary anxiety and self-sabotage. As a generation that values independence and personal success, many of us subconsciously see love as a potential obstacle rather than a fulfilling partnership. This mindset often leads to toxic thinking, where true love and long-term relationships feel unattainable — or worse, undesirable.

Balancing Independence and Love

To be clear, independence and finding love later in life are not inherently bad things. Prioritising personal growth, chasing your dreams, and discovering who you are as an individual is crucial. There’s immense value in living a full, vibrant life and knowing your worth before committing to a relationship. But the idea that love and independence are mutually exclusive is a misconception.

It’s entirely possible to embrace romance while maintaining autonomy and a fulfilling life. Love doesn’t have to be a barrier — it can be a partnership that enhances your experiences. A healthy relationship doesn’t mean sacrificing your independence; it means creating a dynamic where you both feel empowered to thrive, both individually and as a couple. Shared experiences, mutual growth, and a deep connection with someone who truly understands you can bring unparalleled happiness. The idea that being in a relationship means giving up on your personal goals or freedom is outdated. We can pursue our passions and live life to the fullest while also celebrating the joy of being in love. When we let go of the fear that love will hold us back, we open ourselves up to the possibility of a partnership that can make every moment more meaningful.

The Future of Love

Hope is not lost. Love and romance can flourish when we set aside the pressures of social media trends and allow relationships to develop organically. By focusing less on societal expectations and more on building authentic connections, we can reclaim the beauty of romance in a world that desperately needs it.

Ultimately, love hasn’t disappeared; it’s just waiting for us to let go of the noise and rediscover it. When we stop worrying about fitting our relationships into the moulds set by social media, we allow romance to happen naturally — and that’s where the beauty lies.

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