Author: Lydia Otuyoma

Due to technological advancements, gadgets like phones, tablets, pads, and laptops have been forged. This has contributed greatly to different sectors globally, especially networking and research. 

However, in our world today, the use of technology has been abused and despite its good peculiarities, it is also well known for Its negative impacts.

The use of gadgets has had some fallouts on relationships and family life. It has effects on marriages, relationships with kids, and so on.

How do mobile phones affect one's relationship?

Gadgets such as phones, tablets, etc may affect relationships because of how you use them. A lot of people find themselves glued to their phones for over 20 hours a day.

Several relationships may suffer because of the use of gadgets. These include parent and children relationship: 

This cuts across two aspects. Firstly, you should know how phones can affect parenting. Secondly, how gadgets affect communication from children to parents.

Seventy percent of parents who work are salary earners and this means that they have a boss. They also work 9-5 jobs. The task required of them is sometimes highly demanding and they can't finish at the office. Most come home and continue their work home. It's some way because they don't have time for their kids so they hire caregivers or nannies. This can be exhausting.

How can we handle this?

• Set boundaries. Know when to deter or take a crack. You can spend time with your kids and continue later
• Monitor your phone usage around your kids.
• Don't use your phone during intimate family moments as it's emotionally draining for kids.

Today, most kids are glued to their phones and social media. This has reduced communication between them and their parents. It's now a norm for kids especially between the ages of 9 to 16 to always be on their phones. This is detrimental to their mental health and wellbeing generally.

Relationship between husband and wife

What do you do first in the morning? Do you hug your spouse or do you start scrolling your phone to respond to messages and emails? Phones are really helpful and necessary but it becomes a bad habit when you pay too much attention to them. It leads to a reduction in communication, lack of trust(your partner may assume extramarital affairs), and distance between couples.

In using your phones you must discipline yourself for the sake of your spouse. Here are some clues for you;

Instead of using your phone till late at night, you can use it much earlier and leave it plugged in somewhere distant from your bedroom, that's if you have trouble controlling the way you use your phone.

Create a time free from all gadgets like phones, pads, laptops, and so on. You can put on a notification to know when it's time to drop your phone

You can also make your bedroom out of bounds for mobile phones.

Put your phone on silent

Even when you put your phone on buzz mode, the distinctive hum draws the attention of your partner. When you’re out on a date, put your phone on silent and leave it in your bag or pouch. That gives you a free hand to hold your spouse with.

How we can reduce the negative effect of mobile phones on family life?

It is best to act when you notice this as an issue. You can call for a family meeting and y'all state ways you can help each other reduce phone usage during family time.

Be willing to listen and understand each person's opinion. Do well to make boundaries for yourselves and ensure you all adhere to them. You can prohibit using phones during meal time, and also on family outings. This will be helpful to you, your kids, and your spouse.

Relationship between friends 

For friends nearby, using your phones all the time can reduce interactions. it's seen by most individuals as snubbing or phubbing plus it's disrespectful to be out with your friend and be on your phone all the while.

In a situation where your friends are distant, your phone becomes the best means of communication and bonding. It's nice to call and check up on your friends, it keeps the relationship alive.

In conclusion

Technology was not made to destroy but for the good of all but it is often misused. Know when to use your phone and be considerate of others around you. Your family should be your priority. Don't let something as minimal as a gadget affect your relationship with your families, friends, and those around you. Let love lead.