How social media is currently changing the 'face' of relationships

Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, August 24th 2025 at 5:07 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
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How Social Media Is Rewriting the Rules of Love and Friendship in Ghana

Social media has seeped into every corner of contemporary life, and nowhere is its influence more palpable than in the arena of human relationships. A recent GhanaWeb feature, “How social media is currently changing the face of relationships,” tracks the shift from face‑to‑face courtship to digital flirting, and the ripple effects this has on friendships, family ties, and the very definition of commitment. The article—rich in anecdotal evidence, expert commentary, and cultural insight—offers a nuanced portrait of how platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok are reshaping how young Ghanaians connect, communicate, and negotiate intimacy.

1. The Rise of Digital Courtship

The piece opens with the observation that most Ghanaian couples now meet in the “virtual space first.” A young entrepreneur from Accra recounts how a mutual interest in Afro‑beat music led to a conversation on Instagram, which eventually blossomed into a relationship. “We never met until we were both 19, but we were already talking daily,” she says. The article cites statistics from a 2023 Ghana Youth Survey that found 68 % of respondents aged 18‑25 had met a romantic partner online.

Expert sociologist Professor Amina Abubakar notes that social media removes geographical barriers: “In a country where many young people move from rural areas to urban hubs for education, online platforms create a ‘digital bridge’ that keeps connections alive.” The feature also highlights Ghanaian dating apps such as Tusi (for singles seeking relationships) and “Love Ghana” (a platform dedicated to culturally grounded dating), underscoring the growing appetite for purpose‑driven matchmaking services.

2. Emojis, Sexting, and the New Language of Intimacy

Beyond the “meet‑in‑the‑middle” dynamic, the article delves into the subtle shift in communication style. Texting has become the default language of courtship, where emojis serve as emotional cues that can replace the nuances of body language. The article reports a 2022 study by the Ghana Institute of Journalism showing that 72 % of couples in Ghana use sexting to maintain intimacy in long‑distance relationships.

While such digital flirtation can strengthen bonds, the article warns of the risk of “digital addiction.” The piece quotes a cyber‑security analyst who notes that “the ease of sharing intimate photos can create vulnerabilities, especially when these images are shared beyond the intended partner.” She calls for better digital literacy programs that teach boundaries and consent in online interactions.

3. Re‑defining Trust and Jealousy

One of the feature’s most provocative sections examines how constant visibility can breed jealousy. Professor Abubakar references a longitudinal study that found a 15 % increase in reported relationship dissatisfaction among users who frequently scroll through their partners’ feeds. “Social media gives people a window into every other person’s life, and that can lead to a comparison trap,” she explains.

The article cites personal accounts from a 27‑year‑old teacher in Kumasi who felt “pressure” to maintain an online image that matched her partner’s curated lifestyle. She shares how this stress led to frequent arguments over “what is shown on the profile” versus what is “real.” The piece concludes that while social media can foster transparency, it can also erode trust when individuals feel compelled to present a polished version of themselves.

4. Family, Community, and Digital Etiquette

In Ghana, family approval plays a crucial role in marriage, and the article shows how social media alters this dynamic. A father from Tamale explains that his daughter’s social media profile becomes a public forum where extended family can “watch, judge, and advise.” While this can lead to increased scrutiny, it can also provide a support network that encourages responsible relationship choices.

The article follows a link to a related GhanaWeb story on “Digital Etiquette in Ghanaian Families.” That piece offers practical guidelines, such as respecting privacy settings, avoiding oversharing in public groups, and using “family groups” for communication. The combined coverage underscores a cultural shift: while Ghanaian families historically controlled relationships from a physical space, now they are navigating a digital landscape.

5. The Positive Side: Community Building and Support

While the article acknowledges challenges, it also highlights the positive outcomes. Social media allows for support groups that tackle issues such as infidelity, domestic abuse, and mental health. The GhanaWeb feature links to a story about “#LoveGhana” hashtag campaigns that connect singles and couples facing relationship hurdles. These digital communities offer counseling resources, legal advice, and peer support, illustrating how platforms can act as modern day “kitchen corners” where people seek guidance.

Moreover, the article notes that social media has broadened the definition of partnership. Same‑sex couples in Accra report using Instagram to find each other and share experiences in a society that is still grappling with LGBTQ+ acceptance. These online connections help foster visibility and empowerment, which can translate into real‑world activism.

6. The Future: Balancing Authenticity and Connectivity

The feature closes on a hopeful note, urging Ghanaian youth to strike a balance between online presence and offline authenticity. It cites initiatives by Ghanaian NGOs that run workshops on “Digital Relationship Management.” The workshops teach skills such as time‑management, digital consent, and the importance of face‑to‑face communication.

Professor Abubakar predicts that as smartphones become even more ubiquitous, the blend of “virtual” and “physical” dating will intensify. She stresses that “technology is a tool—how we use it determines the shape of our relationships.” The article urges readers to embrace the benefits of social media—broader reach, instant support, and creative self‑expression—while staying vigilant against its pitfalls.

Bottom Line

The GhanaWeb article provides a comprehensive snapshot of how social media is reshaping relationships in Ghana. From digital courtship and the new lexicon of emojis to the challenges of jealousy and privacy, it covers the full spectrum of modern intimacy. Importantly, it highlights that while technology can accelerate connection, it also requires new norms and skills—digital literacy, ethical sharing, and an awareness of how our online personas influence real‑world relationships. For Ghana’s youth, the key takeaway is clear: navigate the digital landscape thoughtfully, and let technology enhance rather than replace the depth and authenticity of human connection.

Read the Full Ghanaweb.com Article at:
[ https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/How-social-media-is-currently-changing-the-face-of-relationships-1995263 ]

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