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This week’s lecture and readings encouraged me to think more critically about how new media technologies, particularly the internet, affect social relationships and mental well-being. While the internet has undeniably expanded access to information and made it easier to explore personal interests, I agree with Kraut et al.’s (1998) displacement hypothesis, which argues that time spent online often replaces activities that foster deeper social connection. In my experience, overreliance on the internet can be isolating, even when it appears productive or socially oriented on the surface.

Kraut et al.’s (1998) Internet Paradox study found that increased internet use was associated with reduced family communication, shrinking social circles, and increased loneliness and stress. The authors explain this through the distinction between strong ties and weak ties. Strong ties—close friends and family—offer emotional support and meaningful connection, while weak ties primarily provide information. The internet, especially in its early form, was seen as a medium that increased weak ties at the expense of strong ones. Although technology has evolved significantly since the 1990s, this core concern still feels relevant today.

What resonated most with me was the idea that online engagement, even when centered around shared interests, can unintentionally lead to self-isolation. The internet makes it easy to learn independently and immerse oneself deeply in specific topics, but that convenience can also reduce motivation to seek out in-person collaboration or shared experiences. Even activities that seem inherently social can become solitary when pursued primarily through screens. This reflects the displacement hypothesis in action: time spent engaging online displaces opportunities to build or strengthen real-world relationships.

I also agree with the lecture’s emphasis on overconnection. While I have benefited greatly from the internet’s ability to help me develop skills and knowledge, I have also noticed moments where excessive online engagement leaves me feeling disconnected from others. The issue is not that the internet lacks value, but that relying on it too heavily can replace interactions that provide emotional support, spontaneity, and a sense of belonging.

Overall, this week’s content reinforced my belief that overreliance on new media technologies can have negative social consequences. The internet is a powerful tool, but when it replaces face-to-face interaction rather than complementing it, it can contribute to isolation and weakened social ties. Being aware of this tradeoff is essential if we want to use technology in ways that enhance, rather than diminish, our social lives.

References

Kraut, R., Patterson, M., Lundmark, V., Kiesler, S., Mukopadhyay, T., & Scherlis, W. (1998). Internet paradox: A social technology that reduces social involvement and psychological well-being? American Psychologist, 53(9), 1017–1031.