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The Rise of Digital Intimacy: How Online Reactions Shape Modern Relationships

The Rise of Digital Intimacy: How Online Reactions Shape Modern Relationships

In today’s fast-paced digital world, intimacy no longer depends solely on face-to-face conversations or physical closeness. Instead, people now experience and express connection through screens which is a concept known as digital intimacy. Whether it’s liking a photo, replying to a story, or sending an emoji reaction, these small online gestures often carry deep emotional meaning. With the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok, digital intimacy is shaping how people form and maintain relationships in everyday life.

Digital intimacy refers to the closeness and emotional connection people build and feel through digital platforms. Unlike traditional intimacy, which often requires physical presence, digital intimacy can happen instantly across distances. Friends, couples, and even strangers can exchange support, affection, or humor through messages, comments, and reactions. Communication in this context becomes short, fast, and emotionally loaded even a heart emoji or a laughing response can create a sense of being seen, valued, and emotionally connected.

Communication Characteristics and Behavior

The communication in digital intimacy is often asynchronous, visual, and symbolic. People may not speak in full sentences but use images, GIFs, emojis, and voice notes to convey feelings. This non-verbal communication is quick, easy to understand, and emotionally expressive.

Behaviors often seen in digital intimacy include:

  • Regular interaction (likes, replies, shares)
  • Private messages after public engagement (like replying to a story)
  • Sending voice notes or videos to share moments
  • Checking each other’s online presence or last seen

These behaviors reflect a growing comfort in building emotional closeness without physical interaction.

Fast Reactions and Their Role in Building Intimacy

One of the most effective tools in digital intimacy today is the fast reaction feature, like emoji responses to Instagram Stories. These instant reactions allow users to express feelings within seconds, without needing to type a message. This low-effort but high-impact communication makes it easier to maintain consistent contact.

For example:

  • A quick heart-eye emoji on someone’s selfie communicates admiration or affection.
  • A fire emoji can signal excitement or praise.
  • Even a laughing emoji can strengthen a bond by showing shared humor.

These reactions, though simple, often maintain an emotional presence that lets others know “I’m here, I see you, I care,” without needing deep conversations every time.

Digital intimacy has transformed how people experience closeness in the modern world. Through fast, emotionally charged interactions — especially reactions like emojis — people stay connected in ways that feel personal and meaningful. While it may not replace traditional intimacy, digital intimacy offers a new layer of connection that fits the rhythm of digital life. As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways we express love, care, and friendship — often, one tap at a time.

References

Baym. (2015). Personal connections in the digital age. williamwolff. https://williamwolff.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/baym-ch1-2015.pdf

Daantje Derks Agneta H Fischer Arjan E R Bos. (2008, may 04). The role of emotion in computer-mediated communication: A review. ResearchGate. file:///Users/sekprodikomip/Downloads/The_role_of_emotion_in_computer-mediated_communica.pdf

Social networking sites and our lives. (2011, June 16). Internet & Technology. Retrieved July 7, 2025, from https://www.pewinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/media/Files/Reports/2011/PIP-Social-networking-sites-and-our-lives.pdf

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat: A Communication Science Perspective

Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat: A Communication Science Perspective

Raja Ampat, located in Papua, Indonesia, is one of the planet’s richest areas for marine biodiversity. Its beautiful beaches, colorful corals, and deep-rooted local traditions have made it a destination for tourism and conservation. Yet, this area is now at the center of a growing controversy over nickel mining. The Indonesian government promotes nickel mining for its economic benefits and “downstreaming” policies (increasing domestic processing), but local communities and NGOs worry about its environmental and cultural impacts. In this article, we will explore this issue through the lens of three communication theories, which are the framing theory, agenda-setting theory, and uses and gratifications theory, to understand how media and communication can shape perceptions and policies.

Nickel Mining and Its Impact in Raja Ampat

Nickel is an essential mineral used in batteries, electronics, and stainless steel. Its demand has surged with the global shift towards electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. The Indonesian government supports mining and processing nickel domestically (downstreaming), citing economic growth and national interests. However, in Raja Ampat, this has caused tension between economic interests and environmental and cultural heritage. Local communities and NGOs have protested, fearing that mining will damage delicate marine ecosystems and disrupt traditional ways of life.

Framing Theory: How Media Shapes the Debate

Framing theory explains how media and communication shape public understanding by highlighting certain angles and downplaying others. In the Raja Ampat debate, national media often frames nickel mining as an economic necessity, focusing on jobs and revenue generation. Meanwhile, NGOs and local media frame it as an environmental threat and a risk to cultural heritage. Framing affects how people understand the issue—those who are exposed to economic framing tend to accept mining policies, while those exposed to environmental framing oppose it.

Agenda-Setting Theory: Influencing What People Care About

Agenda-setting theory argues that the media doesn’t tell people what to think, but what to think about. In the Raja Ampat context, mainstream media often gives more space to government statements about the benefits of nickel mining, making it a priority issue in the public’s mind. Meanwhile, stories about environmental damage or the voices of indigenous communities receive less attention, causing the public to undervalue these perspectives. Understanding this theory highlights the need for balanced media coverage that includes all stakeholders.

Uses and Gratifications Theory: Understanding Stakeholder Media Usage

Uses and gratifications theory focuses on why people use media and what they gain from it. In the Raja Ampat mining debate, different groups use media for different ends:

  • Governments and companies use the media to justify policies and build legitimacy.
  • Local communities and NGOs use media platforms (such as social media) to raise awareness, mobilize support, and voice their concerns.
  • The general public chooses media that confirms their interests, making media literacy vital for understanding the complexities of the issue.

The Role of Communication Science

Communication science can help address the Raja Ampat issue by:

  • Helping stakeholders understand how media framing influences public perceptions.
  • Guiding journalists to cover both economic and environmental angles, ensuring balanced agenda setting.
  • Helping NGOs and communities design media campaigns that resonate with wider audiences, making their concerns harder to ignore.
  • Fostering dialogue between government, businesses, and communities, creating spaces for inclusive conversation.

The nickel mining issue in Raja Ampat is a reminder that economic policies must be balanced with environmental and social priorities. By applying communication theories like framing, agenda setting, and uses and gratifications, we can better understand how media influences perceptions and public debate. This understanding can ultimately help create a more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable approach to resource management that respects both the land and its people.

References

Denty Piawai Nastitie. (2025, june 13). National Human Rights Commission: Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat Violates Public Rights to a Healthy Environment. kompas.id. https://www.kompas.id/artikel/en-komnas-ham-tambang-nikel-di-raja-ampat-langgar-hak-publik-atas-lingkungan-hidup-yang-sehat

Tambang di Raja Ampat Berpotensi Konflik Sumber Daya Alam. (2025, June 18). Komnas HAM. Retrieved June 30, 2025, from https://www.komnasham.go.id/komnas-ham-tambang-di-raja-ampat-berpotensi-konflik-sumber-daya-alam

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Communication theories help us understand how information is transmitted and how it influences individuals, groups, and society. These theories matter because they allow us to critically examine the media’s role in shaping our worldview. One such theory is the Agenda-Setting Theory, which explains how media influences not what people think, but what people think about. In other words, the media has the power to decide which issues are seen as important by the public.

Agenda-Setting Theory was first introduced by Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw in their 1972 study, “The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media”. This study focused on the 1968 U.S. presidential election and found that the issues emphasized in the media were the very issues that the public came to regard as most significant. The theory suggests that by giving more coverage to certain topics, the media can make those topics more noticeable, or salient, in the public’s mind.

The core concept of Agenda-Setting Theory is called salience transfer — the process through which the importance of issues in media coverage is transferred to the public agenda. Media outlets decide which stories to highlight, how often to cover them, and how much space or air time to give them. As a result, audiences tend to perceive those stories as more significant.

The theory operates on two levels:

  1. First-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of issues, or which topics matter to the public.
  2. Second-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of attributes, or how certain issues or candidates are framed — for example, what traits or characteristics the media emphasizes.

This theory rests on the assumption that media audiences often rely on media for information. The more the media covers an issue, the more important that issue appears to the public.

The Impact of This Theory

Agenda-setting doesn’t just affect how people talk about events; it has long-term impacts on:

  • Public Awareness: Making certain issues stand out from the rest.
  • Public Opinion: Influencing which topics people consider worth discussing and worrying about.
  • Policy and Political Action: Helping shape priorities for leaders and institutions.

In Indonesia, the extensive media focus on PPKM (Pemberlakuan Pembatasan Kegiatan Masyarakat), which is the policy that restricts community activities, and kept this measure at the top of the public agenda. The constant stream of information about case numbers, restrictions, and government policies made PPKM a priority in the public’s daily conversations and influenced behavior across the nation. Another example is the media coverage of climate change. The more media outlets report on rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events, the more these topics dominate public discussions and policy decisions, and the more the media puts a spotlight on them.

Agenda-Setting Theory highlights the powerful role media play in shaping public discourse. While it doesn’t target individual opinions, it sets the boundaries for what people discuss, worry about, and ultimately act upon. In a world full of information, understanding this theory is crucial for becoming more aware of how perceptions are formed and why certain topics dominate the conversation.

References

The Agenda-Setting Role of the News Media. (2019, march). ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332287520_The_Agenda-Setting_Role_of_the_News_Media

Agenda Setting Theory | Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion. (2023, April 8). Media Theory. Retrieved June 24, 2025, from https://mediatheory.net/agenda-setting-theory/

Maxwell E. McCombs, Donald L. Shaw. (n.d.). The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media. JSTOR, VoI.36(No.2), 176-187. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2747787?seq=7

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Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik?

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Desain kemasan sebuah produk memiliki peran penting dalam sebuah produk. Penampakan visual memegang banyak peran mulai dari daya tarik, identitas merek, informasi produk, pengalaman pelanggan, hingga pengaruh Keputusan pembelian.

Tak hanya fokus pada kualitas produk, seorang pemilik usaha dituntut untuk adaptif dengan transformasi digital yang mengedepankan estetika visual. Menjawab persoalan tersebut dosen Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A. melakukan pengabdian bertajuk “Pelatihan Design Packaging Sederhana”.

Bekerjasama dengan Dinas Komunikasi Informatika dan Persandian Kota Yogyakarta, pemberdayaan diberikan kepada Kelompok Informasi Masyarakat Yogyakarta (KIM YK) di Kelurahan Suryatmajan pada Kamis, 19 Juni 2025.

Sebanyak 40 masyarakat yang tergabung dalam KIM YK merupakan pelaku UMKM yang diharapkan akan

“Pemberdayaan atau pelatihan dalam konteks ini untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan, ekonomi, dan skill. Agar komunitas ini terutama melalui masyarakat, melalui komunitas-komunitas UMKM ini bisa berdiri, bisa mandiri bahkan bahkan bisa membuka lapangan kerja,” ujar Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A.

Praktiknya, pemberdayaan ini dilakukan bersama mahasiswa International Program Communication (IPC) batch 2023. Puluhan mahasiswa terjun untuk belajar langsung bagaimana komunikasi pemberdayaan pada realita sosial.

Desain packaging sederhana dilakukan menggunakan alat seadanya, melalui smartphone yang dimiliki masyarakat aplikasi Canva dikenalkan. Workshop dimulai dengan pemahaman dasar terkait desain packaging, dilanjutkan dengan praktik membuat desain di Canva.

“Kelompok komunitas didampingi oleh mahasiswa-mahasiswa IPC 2023, walaupun konteksnya adalah mahasiswa dan internasional program tapi mereka harus tahu konteks lokal itu seperti apa, bahkan konteks memberdayakan masyarakat lokal dan turun langsung ke lapangan melihat bagaimana keadaan masyarakat,” tambahnya.

Sebelum workshop, hadir pula Ketua KIM Provinsi DIY Bapak Suripto. Beliau memberikan pengarahan hingga bagaimana awal mula perintisan KIM.

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Mahasiswa IPC turut mendampingi workshop desain packaging

Berikut rencana pemberdayaan yang akan berlangsung tiga sesi:

Rangkaian Workshop Pemberdayaan

  1. Sesi Pertama (Sudah Berlangsung)
  • Tema: Workshop desain kemasan menggunakan Canva.
  • Materi:
    • Pentingnya desain kemasan untuk produk UMKM.
    • Praktik menggunakan Canva (versi gratis/berbayar affordable).
  • Tujuan: Memberikan solusi praktis dan ekonomis untuk meningkatkan daya saing produk.
  • Pendamping: Mahasiswa IPC (International Program Communication), UII – khususnya dari mata kuliah Empowerment Communication 2023.
  1. Sesi Kedua (Rencana Minggu Depan)
  • Tema: Workshop fotografi produk sederhana.
  • Teknologi: Menggunakan kamera smartphone (tidak mengandalkan alat canggih).
  • Tujuan: Meningkatkan kualitas visual produk UMKM.
  1. Sesi Ketiga (Rencana Berikutnya)
  • Tema: Workshop e-commerce (Shopee dan platform lain).
  • Tujuan: Mengajarkan pemasaran digital produk UMKM.
  • Pemateri: Praktisi entrepreneur pemilik toko e-commerce besar dari Malioboro.

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The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

Communication theories help us understand how people interact through messages and media. They explain the reasons behind media use and its effects on audiences. One important theory in this field is the Uses and Gratifications Theory (U&G). This theory focuses on the idea that people are not just passive receivers of media but active users who choose media based on their needs.

The origins of U&G trace back to the 1940s, with early studies on radio listeners. However, it was further developed in the 1970s by Elihu Katz, Jay Blumler, and Michael Gurevitch. They aimed to understand why people use certain media instead of how media affects people. Later contributors like Herta Herzog and Wilbur Schramm added to the theory by studying media motivations and preferences in more detail.

How Does It Work? Understanding the Theory’s Framework

The core idea of U&G theory is that people use media to fulfill personal needs. These needs are diverse and vary from one individual to another. It also shows that people use media not just because it’s available, but because they expect it to give them something meaningful.

To understand how this theory works, it’s important to look at its five key assumptions:

  1. The audience is active :People are not passive receivers,and they choose media intentionally to meet specific goals.
  2. Media use is goal-directed : Viewers or users have reasons for selecting particular media content.
  3. Media competes with other sources of satisfaction :People can also meet their needs through friends, books, hobbies, not just media.
  4. Users understand and can explain their own media use :This means people are generally aware of what they want from media and why they use it.
  5. Cultural judgment is suspended : Instead of labeling media as “good” or “bad,” researchers focus on how individuals actually use and interpret it.

These assumptions shape the theory by emphasizing the audience’s role in the communication process. They highlight that media use is not accidental or random. Instead, people approach the media with a purpose, and this purpose is often shaped by their environment, mood, personality, and current situation. Alongside the assumptions, U&G outlines five categories of needs that explain why people use media:

  • Cognitive needs: the need to gain information and knowledge.
  • Affective needs: the need for emotional satisfaction or entertainment.
  • Personal integrative needs: the need to boost self-esteem and personal identity.
  • Social integrative needs: the desire to connect with others or be part of a group.
  • Tension-free needs: the need for escape and relaxation.

These needs influence media choice. For example, someone feeling lonely might scroll through Instagram (social integrative), while another stressed person might watch funny videos on YouTube to relax (tension-free).

Real-Life Examples

During the 2024 elections, many young people used TikTok not just for entertainment but to follow political updates. Some watched short videos to understand policies (cognitive needs), while others enjoyed humorous or emotional content related to politics (affective needs). Many users also posted their opinions to feel more confident and heard (personal integrative needs) and stayed connected through comments and trends (social integrative needs). For others, TikTok offered a fun escape from the stress of political debates (tension-free needs).

The Uses and Gratifications Theory is important because it shifts the focus from what media does to people to what people do with media. It reminds us that we actively participate in media use, driven by our personal needs and goals. This theory helps media creators and researchers better understand audiences and create content that meets real human desires.

References

Moses Sichach. (2023, November 17). Uses and Gratifications theory – Background, History and Limitations. SSRN, 1-11. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4729248

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Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

In the vast world of communication studies, theories help us understand how messages are created, interpreted, and influence society. Communication theories explore the processes, tools, and impacts of information exchange across different platforms. One such influential theory is Framing Theory, which focuses on how media and communicators shape public perception by highlighting certain aspects of a message while ignoring others. Framing does not only tell audiences what to think about but also how it goes a step further to suggest how to think about it.

Gregory Bateson introduced the concept of framing in 1972, who defined psychological frames as the “spatial and temporal bounding of a set of interactive messages.” This concept was later expanded by scholars like Erving Goffman, whose work Frame Analysis (1974) became foundational in understanding how individuals use mental frameworks to interpret events. The theory shares roots with agenda-setting theory, which examines how media decides the importance of issues.

However, framing moves beyond agenda-setting by focusing on the essence and context of those issues. Robert Entman, a key figure in modern framing research, emphasized that framing involves selection and salience—choosing some aspects of reality and making them more noticeable in communication.

How Framing Theory Works

Framing theory suggests that the way information is presented—its “frame”—influences how people understand and react to it. These frames act as organizing principles or abstractions that structure meaning. Robert Entman, who is a leading scholar in framing theory, proposed that effective frames perform four core functions in communication. These functions help shape how audiences interpret and respond to messages. The four functions are:

  1. Define Problems: This involves identifying what a problem is and why it matters. For example, a news report may define climate change as a global emergency, framing it as an urgent issue requiring attention.
  2. Diagnose Causes: Once the problem is defined, the frame suggests who or what is responsible. In the case of climate change, the frame might point to industrial pollution, government inaction, or unsustainable consumption patterns.
  3. Make Moral Judgments: Frames often include evaluations of those involved. They may suggest that certain behaviors are unethical or unjust, such as blaming oil companies for prioritizing profit over the planet.
  4. Suggest Remedies (Treatment Recommendations): Finally, frames offer solutions or courses of action. These may include policy changes, public awareness campaigns, or technological innovations.

Also, according to Goffman, people rely on primary frameworks:

  • Natural frameworks interpret events as physical occurrences, independent of human influence
  • Social frameworks view events as the result of human actions and motivations.

Real-Life Examples of Framing

Real-Life Example: Framing in the Case of Palestine

The media often frames the situation in Palestine in different ways, which affects how people understand the conflict.

  1. Some news reports use the conflict frame, showing it as a fight between two equal sides, without explaining the power difference.
  2. Others use the responsibility frame, blaming only the Palestinian side while ignoring the role of occupation and blockade.
  3. The human-interest frame is used when stories show the suffering of Palestinian families, especially women and children, to create empathy.
  4. Some media apply the morality frame, questioning whether military actions against civilians are ethical.

These different frames can lead audiences to see Palestinians as either victims or aggressors, even when the facts are the same. This shows how framing can strongly shape public opinion.

Framing Theory is a powerful lens for understanding media influence. By not only selecting what to present but also how to present it, communicators shape audience perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Recognizing the use of frames in everyday communication helps individuals become more critical consumers of media and more responsible communicators themselves. As the media continues to act as society’s gatekeeper, framing remains a vital tool for both analysis and awareness in the communication field.

Reference

Arowolo, S. O. (2017). UNDERSTANDING FRAMING THEORY. researchgate, 1-4.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Influence of Cultural Background on Communication Styles: High and Low Context Cultures

The Influence of Cultural Background on Communication Styles: High and Low Context Cultures

Culture plays a vital role in shaping how people communicate. One of the most well-known frameworks for understanding cultural differences in communication is the concept of high-context and low-context communication, introduced by Edward T. Hall. In high-context cultures, much of the communication is implicit, relying on nonverbal cues and shared understanding. In contrast, low-context cultures value direct, clear, and explicit communication. Deeply rooted in cultural values and social norms, these differences can influence everyday interactions and impact intercultural communication, especially in global teams and diverse environments.

High-context cultures rely heavily on nonverbal signals, tone of voice, facial expressions, and shared experiences to convey meaning. Communication is often indirect, emphasizing harmony, relationships, and avoiding conflict. Countries like Japan, India, and Finland are often cited as high-context cultures. In these cultures, understanding a message requires reading between the lines and interpreting the broader context. On the other hand, low-context cultures such as the United States and Germany emphasize verbal clarity, directness, and efficiency. People in these cultures expect messages to be straightforward and self-contained, with little reliance on context or shared background.

Cultural Values and Their Influence

These communication styles are influenced by broader cultural values. High-context communication is often linked to collectivist cultures, where group harmony and social cohesion are prioritized. Individuals are expected to be sensitive to others’ feelings and to maintain social balance, which is why indirect communication is preferred. In contrast, low-context communication tends to be found in individualist cultures, where personal expression, autonomy, and efficiency are highly valued. As a result, communication becomes more task-oriented, and directness is seen as a sign of honesty and competence. These cultural dimensions affect not only how people speak but also how they interpret messages from others.

Implications for Intercultural Communication

Misunderstandings often occur when people from different communication cultures interact. For instance, a person from a low-context culture may find a high-context communicator vague or evasive, while the high-context individual may see the low-context style as blunt or insensitive. In international teams, such differences can lead to frustration or conflict if not properly managed. Developing intercultural competence—such as empathy, flexibility, and awareness of communication styles—can help reduce misunderstandings and foster better teamwork. Recognizing the difference between what is said and what is meant in different cultural contexts is crucial for building mutual respect and effective communication.

Cultural background has a profound influence on communication styles. High-context and low-context cultures represent two different approaches to sharing and interpreting messages, shaped by deeper cultural values such as collectivism and individualism. Understanding these differences is essential for successful intercultural communication. By being aware of how people from different cultures communicate, individuals can adapt their approach, reduce conflict, and create stronger relationships in diverse settings.

Reference

Levitt, S. R. (2022). Intercultural Competence in International Teamwork: Understanding High- and Low-context Communication Styles. COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA IN ASIA PACIFIC (CMAP), 1-13.

Shjio Nishimura, S. T. (2008). Communication Style and Cultural Features in High/Low Context Communication Cultures: A Case Study of Finland, Japan and India. researchgate, 1-15.

contributors, W. (2025, May 21). High-context cultures. Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-context_and_low-context_cultures

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

 

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Staying Close from Afar: The Role of Social Media in Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships

Staying Close from Afar: The Role of Social Media in Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships

In today’s globalized world, it’s increasingly common for people to be separated by distance, whether for school, work, or other life changes. But while physical distance can be challenging, emotional closeness doesn’t have to fade. Thanks to social media, staying connected with friends, family, and loved ones has never been easier. These platforms allow us to maintain relationships, share everyday moments, and feel close to those far away.

  1. Everyday Connection Through Shared Moments

One of social media’s most powerful roles in long-distance relationships is offering a way to share daily life. A simple Instagram story, TikTok video, or WhatsApp update can say a lot about how someone is doing. It creates a sense of involvement, like you’re living alongside each other even if you’re in different countries or time zones. For example, a person might post about a morning coffee, and their friend from another continent replies with a voice note sharing a similar routine. These small exchanges might seem insignificant, but over time, they build a sense of togetherness. Platforms like Snapchat encourage real-time updates, which can make relationships feel current and real.

  1. Deepening Communication with Creative Interaction

Beyond basic chatting, social media allows for more interactive and creative ways to bond. Long-distance friends can watch a show together using apps like Locket or stream on Instagram Live. Sharing funny memes or meaningful posts through DMs is a way of saying, “This reminded me of you.” Even creating joint content—such as collaborative TikTok’s or shared playlists, makes people feel closer. These virtual activities create shared memories, even if you’re not in the same place. They turn communication from routine check-ins into something fun, engaging, and meaningful. It helps keep the energy of the relationship alive and often brings joy into both people’s days.

  1. Building Trust and Emotional Presence

Long-distance relationships, especially romantic or family ones, rely heavily on trust and consistent communication. Social media helps build that trust by offering visibility and transparency. Features like “last seen,” read receipts, or shared posts can offer reassurance, though they should be used respectfully. Video calls, voice notes, and messages help to fill emotional gaps. Even a simple emoji reaction or comment can show, “I’m here. I care.” This digital presence, often called “ambient awareness,” means you don’t have to talk 24/7 to feel close; you just know the other person is around. However, it’s important to set healthy boundaries. Social media should be a bridge, not a pressure. Over-relying on it or misreading online behaviour can create misunderstandings. Open conversations about communication styles help avoid unnecessary conflict.

Social media has transformed how we maintain long-distance relationships, turning what once felt impossible into something deeply possible—and even enjoyable. By sharing daily moments, engaging creatively, and building emotional presence, we can stay close to the people who matter, no matter how far they are. Distance doesn’t have to weaken bonds. With intention and care, social media can help love, friendship, and family thrive across continents.

References

Danielle Lippert, A. R. (2022). The Effects of Social Media on Long Distance Relationships. 15.

House, B. M. (n.d.). an you handle the distance? A look into social media and the effects on Long-Distance relationships. DigitalCommons@CSP, 25.

Kuske, M. R. (2020). Social Media Use in the Maintenance of Long-Distance Romantic. UWL Journal of Undergraduate Research XXIII, 14.

noel, D. S. (2024). The experiences of individuals in maintaining a long-distance relationship through social media. 8.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Why It’s Important to Gain Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence

“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his own attitude by choosing his own thoughts,” said James Allen. This highlights the vital role of self-awareness in emotional intelligence. Mastering our emotions begins with recognizing and choosing how we respond to our surroundings and ourselves.

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as those of others. It encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (contributors, 2025). Developing EI is crucial for handling challenges, building relationships, and making thoughtful decisions. In this article, I will explore why gaining emotional intelligence is essential for personal and social success.

Emotional Intelligence and Social Success

Being emotionally aware and capable makes people effective in social interactions, relevant to friends, professionals, and family members. Listening to emotional concerns helps professionals manage friends and family, allowing them to resolve problems efficiently. With the considered caring soft skills of reading social cues, they can think of solutions instead of reacting in a stupor to unpredictable issues. As a result, not only are connections deepened, but also conflicts are more respectfully managed.

Using and understanding others’ emotions is valuable in professional circumstances related to teams and organizations. Group coordination is effective if there is open communication from all parties, provided that one party submits to dealing with conflict more calmly. When it comes to interpersonal connections as well as workplaces, emotionally intelligent people have a profound impact on communities. Through their empathy and respect, they foster a culture of inclusivity where people feel accepted. In this regard, emotional intelligence improves professional achievements but adds to a more balanced society. (Emotional intelligence in Leadership: Why it’s important, 2019)

The Personal Impact of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence significantly impacts individuals on a personal level, primarily through self-awareness and self-regulation. Self-awareness ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions foundational to emotional intelligence. It allows individuals to identify their feelings accurately and understand how these emotions influence their thoughts and behaviors. This insight leads to better decision-making, improved relationships, and greater self-confidence, enabling people to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

Building on self-awareness, self-regulation involves managing and controlling emotional responses, especially in stressful or challenging situations. Those with strong self-regulation can pause, reflect, and choose constructive reactions rather than impulsive or negative ones, which helps maintain emotional balance and resilience. This ability reduces emotional strain and fosters adaptability and positive interactions with others, contributing to overall well-being and happiness. Together, self-awareness and self-regulation empower individuals to understand their emotional triggers, manage their moods, and respond thoughtfully, enhancing personal growth and life satisfaction. (Antonopoulou, 2024)

How Emotional Intelligence Can Be Developed

Emotional Intelligence isn’t a fixed thing, and can be slowly developed by these three simple ways:

  1. Practice Self-Awareness

Set aside time every day to label and pay attention to your feelings. Keeping a journal or taking a moment to think about the reasons for such emotions.

  1. Practice Self-Regulation

During moments of heightened feelings, take a break and breathe. Deep breaths or counting to ten are effective methods to calm the mind, which ensures one can manage their responses in stressful situations.

  1. Improve Empathy

Learn how to take other people’s viewpoints seriously. To better understand individuals, listen to others, along with considering their feelings. It makes it easier to understand people, as one can create better interpersonal relationships.

Emotional intelligence is a valuable skill that enhances many areas of life. It goes beyond just personal feelings or social interactions, helps us handle everyday challenges, make better decisions, and build stronger relationships. So, taking the time and effort to learn and gain such a skill won’t be a waste of time.

References

Antonopoulou, H. (2024). The Value of Emotional Intelligence: Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, Motivation, and Empathy as Key Components. 15.

contributors, W. (2025, may 1). Emotional intelligence. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emotional_intelligence

Emotional intelligence in Leadership: Why it’s important. (2019, April 3). Retrieved from https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/emotional-intelligence-in-leadership

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

 

 

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Photography as a Tool for Self-Expression

A sacred space where the soul finds peace

Humans have always found different ways to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Some people use writing, painting, music, or dance to share what is inside them. Each person has their style and way of communicating with the world. As Dissanayake, Ellen explains in her book Homo Aestheticus, artistic expression is a natural part of being human( Dissanayake, 199). Photography is one of these powerful tools. Through a camera lens, people can show their emotions, tell stories, and capture memories. It is a unique form of self-expression that speaks without using words.

There are numerous ways to convey various thoughts and emotions through photography. Some photographers express feelings like happiness, sadness, hope, or loneliness through their images. Others use their photographs to communicate stories about social issues, everyday life, or personal experiences. A photograph’s topics, lighting, colors, and angles all contribute to its deeper significance. Even a straightforward image can move people and convey a strong message.

Many people choose photography to express themselves because it feels natural and accessible. Unlike writing or painting, photography does not always need special training. A camera or even a smartphone can become a tool for creativity. Photography also allows people to capture real moments as they happen, freezing memories in time.

Susan Sontag (1977) explains that taking a photograph is a way for people to “possess” an experience, giving it personal meaning (Sontag, 1973). For many, it is easier to show how they feel through an image rather than trying to find the right words. Photography gives them a voice without having to speak.

There are many examples of self-expression through photography. The energy of busy towns is captured by street photographers to convey either chaos or belonging. Portrait photographers capture images that convey feelings, identity, or beauty. On social media, even regular people post pictures of themselves to convey their experiences and aspirations. During the Great Depression, photographers such as Dorothea Lange documented people’s hardships with their cameras. Her well-known image, Migrant Mother, captured the suffering endured by many families and conveyed a profound sense of empathy (Research guides, n.d.). Many people still use photography today to inspire others, spread awareness, and share personal tales.

In conclusion, photography is more than just taking pictures. It is a way for people to express who they are and what they believe in. Through images, they can share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others. Photography crosses the barriers of language and culture, making it a truly powerful tool for human expression.

References

Dissanayake, E. (199). Homo Aestheticus : Where Art Comes From and Why. University of Washington Press.

Research guides. (n.d.). Retrieved from Dorothea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” Photographs in the Farm Security Administration Collection: Migrant Mother Series of Images: https://guides.loc.gov/migrant-mother/images

Sontag, S. (1973). ON PHOTOGRAPHY. The New York Review of Books.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita