In today's world, technology has become an integral part of our lives, and it is impossible to imagine a day without some form of technological device. With the rise of social media platforms, instant messaging apps, email, and online shopping, people are constantly bombarded with notifications and updates that shape their emotional expectations and experiences. This phenomenon is known as digital temporality. Digital temporality refers to the way technology influences the way we experience time and space. It affects how we perceive our environment, how we interact with others, and even how we feel. In this article, I will explore the impact of digital temporality on emotional expectation and disappointment, focusing on how it reshapes our emotions and relationships.
Digital temporality can be measured in notifications and updates. Notifications are alerts sent from apps or websites that notify users of new messages, events, or other important information. Updates refer to changes made to software or hardware that alter its functionality or appearance. These notifications and updates are designed to keep users engaged and connected, but they also have a significant effect on our emotions. When someone receives a notification or update, their brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. The more notifications or updates one receives, the more they anticipate receiving them, which can lead to addictive behavior. This constant state of anticipation can cause stress and anxiety, especially if those notifications or updates do not come through. As a result, digital temporality can create unrealistic expectations and disappointments.
Consider the case of dating apps like Tinder or Bumble. Users sign up for these apps to find romantic partners, but often end up swiping through hundreds of profiles without finding anyone they want to date. When they receive a match or message from someone who piques their interest, their brain releases dopamine, creating excitement and hope.
When the person doesn't respond or ghosts them after a few exchanges, they may experience disappointment and rejection. Similarly, social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram can trigger feelings of jealousy or FOMO (fear of missing out) when people see others living seemingly perfect lives online. They may feel disappointed when they don't live up to those standards, leading to negative self-image and low self-esteem.
Digital temporality can also affect relationships. It can make it challenging to maintain long-distance relationships because it is difficult to establish real-time communication. It is easy for misunderstandings to arise between couples who communicate via text messages or video calls instead of face-to-face interactions.
Digital temporality makes it easier for people to cheat on their partners by sending flirtatious messages or interacting with other people behind their backs. It can be difficult for couples to trust each other due to this constant temptation, which can lead to relationship strain and breakdown.
Digital temporality reshapes our emotional expectations and experiences. The constant notifications and updates we receive from technology create unrealistic expectations that are hard to meet, resulting in disappointments and frustration. This phenomenon can affect our dating life, friendships, and even our romantic relationships. To avoid these negative effects, individuals must learn to control their use of technology and practice healthy habits such as setting boundaries and limiting screen time. By doing so, they can enjoy a more fulfilling and meaningful life free from the grip of digital temporality.
How does digital temporality—measured in notifications and updates—reshape the rhythm of emotional expectation and disappointment?
Rather than focusing on specific individuals or events, it would be more appropriate to examine how the pervasiveness of social media, instant messaging applications, and other forms of digital communication have affected people's expectations of quick responses and reactions to information. This has been referred to as "the now culture," where people have become accustomed to receiving immediate gratification for their needs and desires.