What is online communication?
Online communication involves sharing thoughts, feelings, and ideas through digital devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc. It can be done via instant messaging, emailing, texting, video conferencing, and social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and others. People often communicate for business purposes, to stay connected with friends and family members who live far away, and even for dating/romantic reasons.
Emotional risks of conflating visibility with intimacy
People may feel more comfortable being visible than intimate when interacting online because they can hide behind screens and not physically show themselves. This can lead to emotional risks if someone misunderstands another person's intentions or boundaries due to lack of contextual clues.
Someone might send flirty messages but miss cues that indicate disinterest or confusion on the other side. They could also accidentally expose personal information or embarrass themselves publicly.
People may find it easier to share their opinions and beliefs without considering how they would affect others in real life situations.
Risks of sexual interaction
Sexual interactions involve physical contact and intimacy that goes beyond just talking about sex or sending nude pictures. If two people start a relationship online, it's important to take time getting to know each other first before meeting face-to-face to prevent potential abuse or coercion. Online relationships can become addictive and lead to obsession, causing one partner to prioritize virtual communication over real ones. This can cause feelings of loneliness and isolation in both partners if there is no actual connection outside the screen. Also, sharing explicit content creates permanent records which can be used against you later.
Online communication can create an illusion of closeness without true intimacy, leading to misunderstandings and potential harmful consequences. It's essential for individuals to set clear boundaries, maintain healthy expectations, and prioritize offline interactions with loved ones for genuine fulfillment.
What are the emotional risks of conflating visibility with intimacy in online interactions?
"Conflating visibility with intimacy can have serious emotional consequences in online interactions as it can lead to feelings of vulnerability, fear, and even anxiety. People may feel like they have shared too much personal information, leaving them open to possible exploitation or rejection. This can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and low self-esteem.