It’s a fact, couples share. They share food, laughter, experiences and smiles. But does sharing a password to your email and social media accounts sound ethical? Well, many already do and this trend is continuing to grow. Today, many couples use digital communication and technology in order to enhance their relationships. In other words, digital technology has become a dominant force in the communication between partners.
“Sharing passwords is a vehicle for establishing trust,” said Jane Greer, a family therapist and author of “What About Me? Stop Selfishness from Ruining Your Relationship”. In most cases, this benefits the relationship. However, it can also be harmful. A lot of information can be misinterpreted as offensive or come across in a different manner than intended. In long-term relationships the speed and volume of digital communication often “ushers in expectations that aren’t realistic,” Greer said.
As no relationship is problem free, digital distractions can put a bump in the road. Digital communication can be a sore spot among some couples. One study found that, “among couples who were partnered 10 years or less, 36 percent were troubled by the fact that their partner was too distracted by their cell phone when they were together”. However, digital communication can be a positive component when sharing social calendars.
“Sharing of online calendars tends to be most prevalent among couples in their logistics-intensive, middle-age period,” said Greer, referring to the time when couples are juggling careers, child-raising duties and other responsibilities. Online calendars have greater appeal and are shared by more couples. Even though sharing digital communication has become extremely prevalent, there are still many who do not take their personal space/privacy for granted.