Social networking can set us up for deep identity crisis and envy because, let’s face it, we generally only post, on these forums the best aspects of our lives: the fun stuff, parties, weddings, holidays, the new car – playing up the positive aspects of our lives whilst excluding the negative, everyday or mundane. Social networking mediums give a very one-dimensional view of our lives.
Isn’t it interesting that a phenomenon, such as social networking, which we join to bring some happiness through connection, potentially has the ability to affect our mood negatively, or end up causing more discontent than happiness? Psychologist Kate Linendoll reminds us that, the next time we log into a social-networking site, ‘the reality of one’s life may not be as glamorous as their profile posts – or boasts.
