Jealousy in the era of social media – hidden likes and subscriptions as a source of conflicts

Social networks have long ceased to be just a means of communication or entertainment. Today they have become a mirror of relationships, a kind of "third participant" in a couple. What previously remained unnoticed is now available in a few clicks: likes, comments, subscriptions, and even the time of the last online visit. All this often turns into grounds for jealousy.

Many couples face a situation where an innocent like under another person's photo is perceived as betrayal or a show of interest. Psychologists explain this by the fact that social networks blur the boundaries between personal and public. What was once considered part of a person's inner world is now visible to their partner.

Subscriptions to certain people or activity in profiles of the opposite sex can be perceived as a signal about the lack of attention in the relationship. Those who already have internal doubts or insecurities perceive such details especially acutely. In this case, social networks become a kind of "magnifying glass," enlarging small details to the scale of a catastrophe.

It's important to understand that jealousy in the era of social networks has a dual nature. On one hand, it can be caused by real signs of lack of respect or attention to a partner. On the other hand, it is often a projection of fears and complexes that have nothing to do with reality.

To avoid turning virtual likes into a reason for scandals, specialists advise openly discussing your feelings. Instead of silently checking subscriptions or conducting interrogations, it's better to honestly talk about your concerns. Direct dialogue helps to understand that actions on the internet don't always have a hidden motive.

Social networks are just a tool. Everything depends on what meaning we attach to each click. Where there is trust, a like won't destroy a relationship. But where there is ambiguity and suspicion, even a small smiley can become a spark for conflict.