Exploring the Meaning of Emotional Intimacy and Authenticity in Digital Relationship Maintenance: A Phenomenological Study on Social Media Users

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital communication platforms has reshaped the way individuals maintain interpersonal relationships, raising questions about the emotional depth and authenticity of online connections. While extensive research has focused on the technical and social aspects of digital communication, the subjective experiences of individuals navigating these platforms remain underexplored. Specifically, it is unclear how individuals perceive and interpret the emotional and social dimensions of relationships mediated by digital technologies. This study aims to address this gap by employing a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of individuals maintaining relationships through social media. Using thematic analysis, we analyzed in-depth interviews with 15 participants to identify key themes related to emotional intimacy, trust, and authenticity in digital communication. The findings reveal that while digital platforms provide opportunities for connection, they often fail to replicate the emotional depth of in-person interactions, highlighting the challenges of building meaningful relationships online. These results suggest the need for a more nuanced understanding of digital communication, particularly in terms of emotional fulfillment and relational authenticity. Our study contributes to the field by offering insights into the lived experiences of individuals navigating digital relationships, with implications for both future research and practical applications in digital communication strategies.