Online relationships in the digital age: new forms of closeness

The article discusses the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships in the context of the dynamic development of digital technologies. The paper highlights the new opportunities for building emotional intimacy offered by online platforms and the challenges posed by the superficiality of contacts and their impact on offline relationships. The paper highlights the role of technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the replacement of physical contacts with online interactions. In addition to theoretical analyses, the article discusses research findings that point to both positive and negative consequences of digital intimacy. The article highlights the need to integrate technology with values such as empathy and trust to minimize the risk of fragmenting relationships.