Why keeping and sending screenshots can ruin relationships

A picture’s worth a thousand words, so be careful of what you say.

Jul 27, 2024

Fights and arguments are a normal part of any relationship. However, during these arguments, partners often try to overpower each other’s perspective. Now, given the hustle life we live, remembering what one said during an argument can be difficult to remember. But thanks to technology, one can very easily be reminded of their words and actions with a screenshot. If a picture is worth a thousand words, a screenshot reveals far more. And if you thought you could clarify the situation, believe us, it only ends up making it worse. Here’s how screenshots can damage your relationships.

Causes trust issues

The fact that one partner is taking a screenshot indicates trust issues in a relationship. It shows that they plan to use them later, which is quite problematic. Each time there is an argument, they have a collection of screenshots to pick from, allowing them to pick on their partner’s mistakes and remind them of their faults. This usually happens when a couple is not in sync with each other. One or both of them end up feeling misunderstood, which forces them to use screenshots as proof to put their point forward. This not only corrupts the trust between couples but also creates insecurity, forcing the partner on the receiving end to wonder what else their partner has taken a screenshot of.

Can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of resentment

Taking a screenshot of something can lead to misunderstandings if taken out of context, making it difficult to explain the entire conversation. Instead of clarifying things, the focus has now shifted to the person having to defend themselves, leaving the partner on the receiving end feeling vulnerable and violated. It also creates a power imbalance as one partner feels dominant because they have proof over the other.

Damages the intimacy between partners

Sharing screenshots becomes an even bigger problem when it’s shared beyond the two people involved. Then it feels like nothing is personal anymore. Despite your good intentions, explaining your side of the story to another person introduces a bias. This can create a lot of tension in the relationship and stifle open communication as the partner who is the recipient of the screenshots will stop sharing things with their partner. These factors create a toxic environment where trust, communication, and mutual respect are compromised.

Inputs by Mehezabin Dordi, clinical psychologist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, and Shahzeen Shivdasani, Relationship Expert & Millenial Author of the book Love, Lust and Lemons

Lead image: Netflix

Also read: The effects of gossip on your mental health

Also read: Non-sexual forms of intimacy that will strengthen your relationship

Also read: How to build emotional intimacy with your partner

Why keeping and sending screenshots can ruin relationships

A picture’s worth a thousand words, so be careful of what you say.

Related Stories