Impact of Social Media Addiction on Communication and Intimacy in Marital Relationship among Couples in Ilorin Metropolis
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Date
2025
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KWASU Journal of Information, Communication and Technology
Abstract
The study examined the impact of social media addiction on communication and intimacy in marital relationship among couples in Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria. Guided by four research questions, the study explored the
patterns of social media use, its impact on communication and intimacy, marital satisfaction, trust and perceived
partner commitment. A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with fifteen
couples selected through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings revealed
that most couples reported excessive use of platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, particularly
at night, often resulting in reduced face-to-face interaction. Social media addiction was found to negatively affect
communication and intimacy, with couples citing distractions during conversations and reduced emotional closeness. The findings align with time displacement theory, showing how digital engagement replaces meaningful
interpersonal bond, though it was found that social media was still used by couples to connect with each other
and to increase communication and intimacy. The study concluded that while social media enhances accessibility,
overuse or addiction to it poses significant challenges to marital stability. Recommendations highlighted the need
for intentional boundaries, improved digital literacy, and couple-focused interventions to foster healthier online
and offline relationship balance.
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Citation
2. Adegbite, M.A. & Shaibu, A.J. (2025). Impact of Social Media Addiction on Communication and Intimacy in Marital Relationship among Couples in Ilorin Metropolis. KWASU Journal of Information and Communication Technology, 4(1)