With the birth of social media, it would come to no surprise that people have begun to find condolence in online friendships-- particularly people whose level of social interaction is low; shy individuals who feel free to be their true selves, away from the otherwise terrifying judgement face-to-face conversation seems to behold. Yet others would argue that most users of of such platforms bear insecurity-- that there is an evident link between chronical Internet users and social isolation. This topic remains one that is greatly discussed-- but with no clear-cut answer whatsoever. Herewith I present my views in regards to this heated debate.

Besides the fact that the Internet allows people to be more authentic and therefore aids individuals such as introverts and the disabled greatly, a numerous amount of benefits grace its name as well: benefits such as being able to discover friends when shifting to another place and the reduction of the chances of harsh rejection. Recently-developed apps create pathways to seek for long-lost friends and keep in touch, which makes online friendships appear as 'valid' as everyday ones. Those who believe in the theory that close friendships can be maintained online continue to point out: loneliness was present before the Internet so much as came to existence. " Does this not project that online messaging platforms inflict no harm?" they ask.

This has not silenced the tide of opponents, however, as they reflect to their own experiences in an effort to broadcast how online friendships are stripped of the same level of bonding. "They lack important factors such as tangible presence, physical touch-- the giddy behaviour that arises naturally at the prospect of meeting your lifelines," they declare. To be sure, deeper connections prove to be increasingly difficult to nurture online-- screens soon seem to take the place of a barrier, restricting simple delights such as loving embrace. It has been concluded by several reputed universities that quality face-to-face interaction and physical touch strengthen friendships far more than any amount of video calling could. They continue to state: friendships across the Internet undoubtedly make their appearance with a price; with investing the time and effort they require to thrive, lesser time and emotional energy could be distributed to the ones readily available, including family. You would certainly miss frolicking around with those nearest to you-- miss out on countless experiences that would otherwise enrich your life.

All in all, it is my belief that social media affects friendships a great deal more than we would be prepared to accept. While it remains possible to maintain mutual friendships online, we need to invest proper time and effort into them, without which close connections would be impossible. The Internet truly does serve as a brilliant device for discovering part pals and passing swift messages-- yet it is my personal opinion that in terms of mutual friendships you wish would last for a lifetime, it ought to be left at that, for face-to-face interaction is the most suitable option.