Texting Results in Disconnection between Couples

Excessive texting especially when fixing relationship problems between couples may result in a disconnection in the relationship, according to Medical News Today.

Researchers from the Brigham Young University (BYU) found that the frequency and content of text messages sent by couples play an important part in the quality of their relationships. The results of the research were published in the journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy. 276 participants were involved in the study and are aged between 18 and 25 and were currently in a committed relationship. Among the participants, 38% said they were in a serious relationship while 46% were engaged and 16% were married.

The participants were each required to complete a survey detailing the ways in which they connect with their partners through the use of various technologies. Results showed that about 82% of individuals exchanged text messages with their partners several times a day. However, the participants also confirmed that all these text exchanges were positive and loving. Women were found to have lower relationship quality when using texting to apologize, manage differences and make serious decisions with their partners.

Although the researchers confirmed that there is a need to have serious relationship conversations face to face, texting about issues can actually make problems worse. Jonathan Sandberg, lead study author said "reaction to disappointment and reality testing occurs more quickly face to face. There is a narrowness with texting and you don't get to see a breadth of a person that you need to see." 

On the contrary, men involved in the study who sent more text messages to their partners had lower quality relationships with them. "We are wondering if this means men disconnect and replace in-person conversations with more texting", said Lori Schade, study author.