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We all know that one power couple on Facebook whose selfies and gushy posts look and sound like one of the most picturesque relationships of all-time.
But a new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin states couples who amp up their “relationship visibility” are actually feeling insecure about their partner’s affections. In facts, studies show that the more they post on social media, the more they are seeking validation for their relationship from other people.
The study led by Northwestern University, surveyed 108 couples, all of whom were listed as “in a relationship” on Facebook — including open relationships or marriages. It was reported that each individual kept a daily journal for two weeks, logging how secure they felt about their relationship, and also how they interacted with Facebook that day.
Trained coders at the university analyzed their Facebook profiles, taking into account how much time they spent on the social network and how many posts each partner shared about the couple. The findings concluded that on days when one partner was feeling romantically insecure or out of love, he or she shared more statuses, photos, or posts with or about the other partner.
Previous research from a Finnish university found that while people will want to be authentic online, their social profiles would include fake components in order to meet social expectations and maintain their “images.”
It seems from these conclusions that the likes and comments can often become so validating that when someone is really struggling, that’s where they get their motivation from — not the person they’re involved with, but what other people will say about it.
For those unhappy and unsure in wondering how to keep the spark alive, there are key things couples can do together in hopes to strengthen bonds of an already healthy and functioning relationship and be contented together.
Work out together
As the adage goes, “couples who sweat together, stay together.” Mirroring the thrill of romantic attraction, studies in Sports Medicine and the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggest exercise induces symptoms of physical arousal and help to boost overall relationship satisfaction thanks to a shared fitness goal.
Celebrate successes together
If you want to really make things healthier between you and your partner, don’t just frequently talk about the deep, dark stuff to better develop your understanding of one another — make it a point to celebrate each other’s successes. A study from the American Psychological Association found the way a person responds to their partner’s success is more important than how they respond in crisis.
Have sex frequently
If you and your partner are in a healthy relationship rooted in trust and communication, sex is simple and is a helpful method for strengthening emotional bonds as it keeps you both in tune with one another. Of course, juggling family life and work can make it hard to maintain a healthy sex life, which is why planning time for it is totally fine and can build anticipation and surprise, which amplifies personality and attraction.
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What do you think of the findings from the study? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section!
The Hudsucker 
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