Most recent public comments by Lauren Scardigno https://nowcomment.com/users/123723 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832738 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832738 Social reward dictates much of how we behave. Social media is a prime example of this. It encourages performative-ness and preoccupation with meeting the standards that others have set - despite whether or not they are realistic. It would make sense that one would feel the need to emulate the relationship/life choices of those they follow who appear idealized to perfection. Mon, 06 Jun 2022 20:37:07 -0400 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832707 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832707 I agree that the distinction between being alone and feeling lonely is vital. It is certainly possible to feel content while being alone. I find alone time incredibly centering, as it can pave the way for deep reflection and introspection. In this respect, being alone can positively contribute to our self-reliance and overall self-concept. I believe it would be fair to assert that when we become comfortable and/or content with being alone, we are less likely to feel the brunt of loneliness itself. Mon, 06 Jun 2022 20:10:09 -0400 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832691 https://nowcomment.com/documents/317340?scroll_to=2832691 One may take comfort in the pseudo-relationships that such platforms allow and, yet, feel unable to achieve similar camaraderie in the real world. With this understanding, it could be fair to assert that social media maintains feelings of isolation and loneliness, as it provides "just enough" social reinforcement to encourage use, while hindering deeper exploration of real-world relationships. Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:48:17 -0400