Family cohesion, defined as the emotional bonds and mutual support within family units, underpins individual well-being and societal stability. In an age dominated by digital technology, social media platforms present substantial challenges to these bonds. This essay examines the negative effects of social media on family cohesion, drawing on Maihasni et al. (2025). It then evaluates two practical strategies that families might adopt to sustain unity amid technological pressures. The discussion adopts a business management perspective, recognising that familial stability influences workforce productivity and organisational dynamics.
Negative Effects of Social Media on Family Cohesion
Maihasni et al. (2025) highlight how excessive social media engagement erodes family cohesion through reduced face-to-face interaction and heightened distraction. Their study finds that family members often prioritise online activities over shared domestic routines, leading to diminished emotional intimacy and support networks. For instance, parents absorbed by professional networking sites or entertainment platforms may overlook children’s developmental needs, fostering isolation rather than unity. Furthermore, the research notes that exposure to idealised online portrayals can generate unrealistic expectations, sparking conflicts over values and lifestyles. From a business management viewpoint, these disruptions extend beyond households; employees experiencing weakened family ties frequently report lower engagement and higher absenteeism, indirectly affecting organisational performance and retention strategies. While Maihasni et al. acknowledge certain benefits of connectivity, their findings underscore predominantly adverse outcomes when usage remains unregulated.
Strategies for Sustaining Cohesion
One effective approach involves establishing family media use agreements. Families collaboratively set boundaries, such as designated device-free periods during meals or evenings. This strategy promotes accountability and encourages direct communication, as evidenced by improved interaction patterns in similar interventions. Its strength lies in adaptability across diverse household structures, though success depends on consistent enforcement and may falter if resistance arises from younger members accustomed to constant connectivity.
A second strategy focuses on prioritising shared offline activities, including regular family outings or hobby sessions. Maihasni et al. (2025) suggest that intentional non-digital engagements rebuild emotional bonds by creating collective memories. Evaluatively, this method offers robust long-term benefits for mental health and relational depth; however, it requires time investment that working parents in business environments may struggle to allocate. When integrated thoughtfully, both strategies can mitigate digital threats while enhancing overall family resilience.
In conclusion, social media poses clear risks to family cohesion, as detailed by Maihasni et al. (2025), with spill-over effects relevant to management practices. Implementing media agreements and offline pursuits provides viable pathways forward, though their efficacy hinges on commitment and contextual adjustment. Ultimately, proactive measures remain essential for preserving unity in increasingly digitised societies.
References
- Maihasni, M., Fachrina, F., Anggraini, N. and Ariesta, A. (2025) Social Cohesion and Social Media Threats to Families in the Digital Era. Society, 13(2), pp. 796-813.
