Online friends show more compassion?

In this day and age where everything- work, leisure, news, etc., is online, it’s almost commonplace to form friendships over the internet. From Twitter to Facebook to Tumblr and Reddit; there are plenty of platforms for people to connect with others who share their interests.

It’s often been said that online connections aren’t real or meaningful in any way but recent studies indicate otherwise (1) . In fact, some researchers have shown that online relationships can be just as strong or even stronger than offline ones when it comes to showing empathy.

What is the definition of Empathy?

Empathy simply means feeling what another person feels. It isn’t always easy because being sympathetic (feeling sorry for someone) is easier than putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and trying to understand their experiences. For example when a friend tells you they feel sad about something you try your best not only picture why they’re feeling like that but also experience similar emotions yourself so that you fully grasp the gravity of how they’re feeling (2) .

How does empathy differentiate from sympathy?

Sympathy can be seen as reaction while empathy requires one put themselves in other peoples situation which could help them see things differentlyand gain new perspectivesbold(3).

Accordingly according to psychologist Daniel Goleman “empathy represents the foundation generic emotion”italicized quote whereas author Brene Brown states “Empathy fuels connection”,“The Soul Of Empathy” (Greater Good Magazine).”.

Can indeterminate interaction nurture affection?

One may ask if its possible for an individual behind their computer screen at home could output such empathy without having ever physically met with whomever on the other side however Internet communication technology allows users connect 24/7 regardless location hence acquaintances across all corners worldwide within reach thus becoming intimate confidants exchanging life occurrences everyday plus lending support and form deep relationships (4).

The online disinhibition effect

“Freedom of anonymity, invisibility and lack of accountability leads to decreased inhibitions as individuals engage in uninhibited behavior”. Anonymous online interactions can give rise to authentic communication building a person’s trust due awareness that digital fellow isn’t judging them (“The Online Disinhibition Effect”, Christofides 2009).

Emotional support examples from social platforms

For instance Reddit r/depression often see most upvoted replies being kind-hearted compliments hope-filled sometimes thought-provoking creativity links wisdom motivational uplifting or just friendly check-ins. Facebook groups like Invisible Illness Support Group consist members supporting each other with reciprocal optimismand empathy for the ongoing struggles they face on day-to-day basis (5) .

Social media a haven of kindness?

Social media proved useful especially during pandemic-brought lockdown; countless number users expressing gratitude plus appreciation towards strangers helpful tips through recommendations offered projects shared etc (“Positive Effects Of Social Media During Lockdown”). It seems people articulate ideas designed enhance others wellbeing more openly nowadays compared prior when public responses usually vague or “I’m here if you need me.”

How important is having someone to talk to?

It cannot be overemphasized, we all need somebody sometimes — everyone at one point in time goes through tough times and sometimes even our close family members aren’t enough. In such cases, it doesn’t matter whether your friends are available offline nor do they have to be physically present by your side maybe a phone call or Facebook message would suffice but if non-available? then knowing an online friend may provide adequate emotional support helps ease tension produced induced by overwhelming occurrences hence why these connections prove crucial love makes its way beyond screens forcing us acknowledge gravity extend aidwhen necessary.

Quick look into how real-life stories demonstrate this affectionate trait among internet acquaintances:

  • How John Green battled depression with his blorgophilia.
  • How Brittany Hockley may have saved her own life because of the deep connection she shared with a stranger from Instagram.

In conclusion, (6) , online friends can not only show empathy but it is very common due to the level of intimacy and ease of communication afforded by social media platforms. Being genuinely concerned for one another’s wellbeing coupled with frequent check-ins show our connectedness goes beyond screens making us better people as we learn expand perspectives which helps in sharing love around encourage others become more supportive caring individuals means connecting via internet would take significantly less time to establish emotional ties than if met while walking past or at any leisure event so one needn’t worry about opportunities flitting away without notice.

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