What is it about?

This study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic affected how people interacted with each other using technology like video calls or messaging. The researchers surveyed over 500 adults in Australia to understand their satisfaction with online interactions compared to face-to-face interactions. They found that younger adults (18-40 years old) were less satisfied with online interactions than older adults (41 years and above). Most people preferred in-person interactions over online ones. The study also examined how factors like age, gender, and marital status influenced which type of interaction people missed the most when they could not meet face-to-face. Overall, the research contributes to our understanding of how the pandemic has changed how we connect with others, highlighting both practical insights and areas for further study.

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Why is it important?

Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on technology-enabled social interactions is essential for adapting to changing social dynamics brought about by global crises. Due to social distancing measures and lockdowns, the pandemic has necessitated a shift towards virtual communication and social interactions. Studying how individuals experience and perceive these changes helps us support mental and emotional wellbeing by identifying factors that contribute to satisfaction or dissatisfaction with online interactions compared to face-to-face interactions. Insights from this research can inform policies and interventions to promote inclusive and effective virtual communication, ensuring that individuals remain connected and supported during times of crisis. Additionally, understanding user preferences and satisfaction with online interactions can guide the design of technology tools and platforms that better meet the needs of diverse users, fostering more meaningful and engaging digital interactions. This research also paves the way for future studies exploring the broader implications of technology-enabled social interactions on society and human relationships.

Perspectives

From a personal perspective, this article highlights the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on how we connect and interact with others. It underscores the challenges and nuances of transitioning from in-person to online communication, particularly for different age groups and demographic segments. As someone who has experienced these changes firsthand, it resonates with my observations and experiences of relying more on technology to stay connected during times of isolation and social distancing. The findings about preferences for face-to-face interactions and the aspects of physical and emotional connection that are missed underscore the irreplaceable value of in-person human connection. This research serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering meaningful interactions, whether virtual or in-person and highlights the need for thoughtful approaches to technology use that support wellbeing and social connectedness. Ultimately, it prompts reflection on how we can navigate and leverage technology to enhance rather than replace the richness of human relationships.

Saqib Nawaz
Swinburne University of Technology

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Examining the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on technology-enabled social interactions, December 2023, ACM (Association for Computing Machinery),
DOI: 10.1145/3638380.3638444.
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