Abstract
Social media plays an important role in the development and maintenance of modern relationships. Previous research has investigated why dyadic couples may choose to display their relationships online, and the individual and relational correlates of these visibility decisions. The current study (N = 669) is one of the first to examine specific outcomes of such visibility—in particular, how online relationship visibility influences self-esteem and relationship termination decision-making following a breach of trust. Although overall social media use was related to low levels of self-esteem, online relationship visibility was not, suggesting that seeking validation on social media is unrelated to relationship maintenance. Further, participant decisions regarding relationship termination were unaffected by reported levels of social media visibility, suggesting that members of a dyad will not stay in relationships to maintain a social media presence or avoid social consequences online. Finally, there was a negative correlation between social media use and relationship issue disclosure to family or friends; the more time individuals spent using social media, the less likely they were to confide in others about problems in their romantic relationship. The utility of online relationship visibility as a predictor of relationship outcomes is discussed, as well as potential antecedents of visibility decisions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
