Strengthening or Weakening Bonds: A Study of Instagram's Role in Social Connections Among Adults in the UAE

الملخص

In the contemporary digital landscape, social media platforms, particularly Instagram, significantly influence social interactions within dynamic and diverse societies such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study explores the impact of Instagram on social connectedness among UAE adults, focusing on relationship maintenance, engagement strategies, and digital communication patterns. Utilizing the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) as a guiding framework, the research investigates active user engagement with Instagram’s features in managing social bonds. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled participants aged 20-30 who are active Instagram users. The findings indicate that Instagram serves as a supplementary social tool, enabling users to remain informed about their social circles and maintain relationships; however, it does not substitute for in-person interactions, especially in conflict resolution contexts. Participants reported strategic engagement and privacy management practices highlighting the impact of cultural norms on digital behavior in the UAE. Moreover, frequent use of Instagram can lead to habitual scrolling, passive participation, and digital fatigue, which may impact in-person interactions.  This study concludes that while Instagram facilitates connections, it paradoxically fosters superficial interactions, complicating the dynamics of digital engagement. The findings enhance existing literature on social media’s role in relationship dynamics, especially in the UAE region, highlighting the necessity for further research into long-term effects, cultural differences, and strategies for mindful social media usage.