With the evolving normalcy of sharing personal information online and utilizing communication technology as a means to talk to other users, more research is required concerning the impact of social media, or social networking sites (SNSs), on romantic relationship health and stability. This study uses the systemictransactional model of dyadic coping to assess the association between Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram usage with romantic relationship stress and romantic relationship satisfaction. Two hundred and eleven participants with Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts, aged 18 to 46 (M = 21.01, SD = 3.16), and who were predominantly heterosexual (80%) Caucasian (61%) women (72%), completed an online survey questionnaire. Analysis of three mediation models using bootstrapping methods revealed that active Twitter and Instagram usage but not active Facebook usage is negatively associated with romantic relationship satisfaction through increased romantic relationship stress. This study extends previous research regarding SNS usage and romantic relationship outcomes by examining three SNSs simultaneously and by using more general measures of relationship stress and satisfaction. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed. Public Policy Relevance StatementWith the normalcy of using social networking sites in everyday life, interpersonal relationships have adapted to more mediated communication. While this may be helpful to keep in touch with friends and family, a growing body of research shows that increased SNS use can be detrimental to romantic relationships due to the various functions that a social media platform provides. Our data suggest that when individuals in relationships regularly use the active features (e.g., posting, commenting, direct messaging) on Twitter and Instagram, they may experience increased stress and decreased satisfaction in their relationship.

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