People find it easier to be their 'true selves' on Facebook
A recent survey suggests that people reveal too much of their lives on Facebook because they can be their authentic selves on the platform, but surely this isn't healthy if you are unable to connect with people in reality?
Flip, there is nothing worse than having someone overshare, either in person or online. Sometimes it's just too much!
Why they choose to give you more then what warrants your attention is beyond me? On Facebook, the worst types of oversharing are couples declaring their love day after day, or the mother who bombards her followers with constant updates of her child's day.
Read: Woman finds birth mother following viral Facebook post
According to The Atlantic, a study conducted by Gwendolyn Seidman of Albright College and published in 'Computers in Human Behaviour' examines how people use Facebook to express their “true selves”. The 'true self' is a concept first named in 2002 - the idea that we possess qualities we’d like to be recognised for but that we normally find ourselves unable to express in day-to-day life.
The study suggests that people who feel like they can express themselves more freely on social media are more likely to disclose things about themselves, and post emotional updates about frustrations or “drama”.
Read: Should you delete your ex from social media after a breakup?
As much as people are able to share more on Facebook it does not make them feel less lonely. Oversharers might just be reaching out for a human connection.
After reading this study I now understand where people are coming from. However, I do feel that they need to work on more interpersonal connections. You do not want everyone to know every single detail about your life.
Read: Be careful what you send and circulate on social media!
Now I want to know from you, are you an oversharer on social media or is your private life purely private?
Let me know by commenting below.