Cellphones, computers, tablets and other devices may seem to make your life easier. You may even have a smart house in Washington that you can control through a handheld device or by speaking to a digital assistant. It is an exciting time in which to live because inventions and improvements place entertainment, communication and the answers to our questions right at our fingertips.
However, the one thing technology may not be helping is your marriage. If you feel like your spouse is more interested in his or her screens than in you, you are not alone. Recent studies are showing a disturbing rise in divorce rates that, not surprisingly, correlates with a rise in the use of technology. According to one survey, the average American adult spends as much as 11 hours a day on a computer. That does not leave much time to build a relationship.
Do you see these signs?
Does your spouse use a computer at work then come home and sit at a computer in the evening? Does your spouse stare at a phone during dinner? Does your spouse remain at the computer long after you have gone to bed or even bring the laptop to bed? You may feel frustrated by these actions, but they could be damaging your marriage if any of the following are true:
- You and your spouse have important matters to discuss but never seem to have the time because of your spouse’s computer use.
- You feel like you have lost friends because you are no longer socializing or doing fun things with other couples.
- Your social interactions end up centered around technology, such as posting videos or photos or “going live” on social media.
- Your spouse has more in common with his or her social media friends, and you are not always included in your partner’s online interests or experiences.
- You and your spouse argue about whether to spend money on the latest tech gadget, or your spouse purchases the newest trend despite your financial situation.
- You are jealous of your spouse’s relationships on social media.
- You suspect your spouse is engaged in a cyber romance or even an affair with someone he or she met or reconnected with online.
Technology, especially the internet and social media, can provide instant gratification that can have addictive effects. If it seems like your spouse has chosen technology over building a relationship with you, it is wise for you to explore your legal options and seek solid advice about how to protect your interests.