The Impact of Technology and Digital Media on the Cycle of Romantic Relationships

Abstract

This thesis reviews the existing literature on how the use of various forms of technology and digital media, including smartphones, social media sites, and dating applications, impacts the cycle of romantic relationships. The three main phases of romantic relationships that are considered are: starting and defining romantic relationships, establishing relationships, and dissolving a romantic relationship. In the concluding chapter the findings from the research of all three phases of the cycle of romantic relationships are summarized, limitations of this research are identified, and possible future studies are proposed.