Social media’s influence on personal relationships has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent exam reports and analysis of past papers, this theme has appeared in various forms over the past few years, particularly in questions about technology’s impact on society. As Social media’s impact on individuals and society continues to evolve, candidates should be well-prepared to address this topic.
Recent Exam Question Analysis
Some people believe that social media has a negative impact on personal relationships, while others think it helps people stay connected. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Social media's dual impact on personal relationships showing positive and negative aspects
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In today’s digital age, the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships has become a subject of intense debate. While some argue that these platforms deteriorate genuine human connections, others maintain that they enhance our ability to stay connected. In my view, while social media offers valuable benefits for maintaining relationships, its negative effects often outweigh its advantages.
Those who criticize social media often point to its detrimental effects on face-to-face interactions. When people become overly dependent on digital communication, they may lose the ability to interpret non-verbal cues and engage in meaningful conversations. For instance, it’s now common to see groups of friends sitting together but focusing on their phones rather than interacting with each other. This phenomenon, similar to Negative effect of modern communication technology on social relationships, has led to concerns about declining social skills.
However, proponents argue that social media platforms facilitate connection maintenance across geographical boundaries. These tools enable people to preserve relationships that might otherwise fade due to distance or time constraints. For example, expatriate workers can maintain close ties with family members through regular video calls and instant messaging, sharing daily experiences despite being thousands of miles apart. Furthermore, social media has proven invaluable during global crises, such as the recent pandemic, when physical meetings were impossible.
In my opinion, while social media’s ability to bridge physical gaps is remarkable, its overall impact on relationship quality warrants careful consideration. The convenience of digital communication often leads to superficial interactions, with people preferring quick messages over meaningful conversations. Additionally, the constant pressure to present an idealized version of life on social media can create unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy, potentially straining relationships rather than strengthening them.
To conclude, although social media offers unprecedented opportunities for staying connected, its impact on personal relationships is largely determined by how we use it. The key lies in finding a balance between digital and real-world interactions while being mindful of Is social media helpful or a waste of time.
