Why Being 'More Social' Isn't Always Better

"In modern psychology and popular culture alike, there is an almost reflexive assumption that other people are always the answer. We are repeatedly told that connection is essential, that reliance on others is inherently healthy, and that needing people is not just normal but desirable. What gets far less attention is the possibility that this emphasis has tipped too far. It is not at all clear that relying on other people is always useful, or that doing so consistently makes us better off."

"Social media illustrates this tension particularly well. While there is no shortage of criticism aimed at specific platforms, much less attention is paid to the deeper assumption they reinforce: that meaningful activity almost always involves other people. The problem is not simply that interaction is mediated through screens rather than face-to-face contact. The problem is that the constant scanning, swiping, and monitoring of others promotes the idea that value, direction, and reassurance must come from the group."

Modern culture and psychology often assume that other people are the answer and that connection and reliance are inherently healthy. That emphasis has shifted too far, so relying on others is not always useful and can leave people worse off. A key skill eroding is the ability to function independently and to value independence. Being able to act alone is a psychological capacity with its own benefits rather than merely a fallback. Social media reinforces dependence by promoting the idea that meaningful activity requires others, through constant scanning, swiping, and monitoring. The consequence is reduced action, decision-making, and appreciation for self-reliance.

Read at Psychology Today