Digital trends and screen time impact modern relationships

Digital habits and online subcultures are increasingly shaping modern romantic relationships. The emergence of the ‘femosphere’—an online collection of content where women discuss dating and gender roles—presents a diverse range of perspectives. While some content promotes healthy boundaries and self-respect, other segments encourage strategic, game-like approaches to dating, such as managing availability to influence partners.

Complementing these cultural shifts, experts warn that excessive screen time is impacting physical and emotional intimacy. Sexologist Mariëtte Kan notes that partners often use smartphones as a way to create distance or as an avoidance strategy during moments that should foster connection. Rather than engaging in conversation or physical closeness, individuals may retreat into separate online worlds, using devices to bypass uncomfortable discussions regarding intimacy or sexual satisfaction.