Are Screens Stealing Your Spouse? The Path to Digital Honesty & Trust in Marriage (Part 1)

Dr John Ng 3 mins read

“Social media complicates life as it magnifies malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.” – James
“I found myself consumed by endless news—Trump, TikTok bans, Deepfake scandals, Ukraine, Hamas. I lost track of what truly matters. Jesus should be my influencer, not the internet.” – Rohan

The responses to this topic have been overwhelming. Readers from all walks of life have shared their struggles, insights, and survival tactics. Today, we explore how couples can reclaim their relationships from the grip of social media and forge a path of digital honesty and trust.

Digital Monks and Digital Slaves: Breaking Free or Drowning?

“I went off social media, except WhatsApp, for two years.” – Cheng
“Surviving. Still coping.” – Jane
“Social media is the ultimate disaster accelerator.” – Mun

There are two extremes—those who have abandoned social media entirely, like digital monks, and those who feel trapped in its addictive vortex, like digital slaves. Some have confessed that their marriages have crumbled under the weight of online distractions, while others battle the constant flood of messages from colleagues, family, and friends.

They can barely breathe. Marital life suffers. One partner may strive for digital discipline while the other is consumed by their screen. This imbalance becomes a thorn in the relationship.

“I wasn’t even aware of this social problem.” – Rosie

Ignorance is not bliss. Many are struggling, and leaders who remain unaware only exacerbate the crisis—burying our heads in the sand won’t make the issue disappear.

The Normalization of Digital Dependency: Justifying the Unhealthy

“Social media is an inseparable part of modern life.” – Indra
“When I need to escape, social media’s free videos—news, songs, movies—become my solace and my companion.” – Joe

Many have simply accepted their digital chains, believing escape is impossible. Work, family, and friendships demand online engagement, but at what cost? Marriages suffer as partners spend more time scrolling than speaking. Conversations become shallow, and relationships, superficial.

Mastering Discipline & Control: A Fight Worth Winning

“Uncontrolled social media use will erode the mind and spirit. I protect my mental health with sunshine, outdoor cycling, exercise, devotionals, and prayer.” – Thiran

Some couples have drawn clear boundaries.

“We discuss online scams and immorality with our daughters to keep them aware and safe.” – Arief
“I limit myself to LinkedIn for professional engagement. No Facebook, TikTok, Telegram, or Instagram. Social media is a scourge for the young and a liability for seniors at risk of scams.” – Kiong

Social media is a double-edged sword—it can build or break. The key lies in how we wield it.

Dr John Ng
Chief Passionary Officer,
Meta Consulting

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