Why closeness is more than just screen contact

And how we can use digital communication effectively without losing real relationships.

We live in an age of constant connectivity. Messages, voice notes, and video calls give us the feeling of always being connected. And yet, many people experience the exact opposite. Despite constant communication, they feel emotionally distant, unseen, and inwardly alone.

A recent review article in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science clearly highlights this tension. Digital interactions are better than no contact at all, but they don't achieve the emotional depth of face-to-face encounters. This is the conclusion reached by Baumeister and colleagues in their comprehensive analysis of psychological studies from 2025.

Why personal interactions are essential for relationships

When people meet face to face, far more than just an exchange of information happens. Facial expressions, eye contact, posture, and even brief pauses in conversation create emotional resonance. This resonance forms the basis of trust, closeness, and connection.

Research clearly shows that face-to-face encounters evoke stronger positive emotions, generate a higher level of engagement, and stabilize relationships in the long term. Digital communication cannot fully replicate this effect. It often reduces social interaction to words or images, thereby diminishing some of its emotional intensity.

Closeness is not a technical feature. It arises from shared presence and shared moments.

Why digital communication still has its place

At the same time, digital communication has become an indispensable part of our everyday lives. It enables relationships across great distances, makes daily life easier, and maintains contact even when personal meetings are not possible.

However, the way it is used is crucial. Digital communication unfolds its value primarily when it complements, rather than replaces, personal encounters. It can maintain connections, create anticipation, and prepare for closeness without pretending to be the complete picture.

A thoughtfully conducted video call can foster emotional closeness. A personal message can express appreciation. But both are most effective when embedded in real-life encounters.

A conscious approach to relationship building

The central idea of the article is as simple as it is profound. Relationships require investment. They require time, attention, and genuine presence.

In everyday life, this means consciously prioritizing personal meetings, using digital communication in a targeted and high-quality way, and constantly reminding oneself that contact does not automatically mean closeness.

Those who want to cultivate relationships must decide to be present. Not just online, but in real life.

Conclusion

Technology can facilitate connection, but relationships are formed between people, not between screens. Digital communication is a valuable tool, but it doesn't replace genuine closeness. Those seeking emotional depth, trust, and connection will find it primarily where people truly meet.

Author: Simone Baur

This post has been automatically translated into English.

Sources:

Baumeister, RF et al. (2025). Socializing While Alone: Loss of Impact and Engagement When Interacting Remotely via Technology . Perspectives on Psychological Science

Image source:

Photo by Canva, used under the Canva Free Media License