Social media has the ability to bring people together all over the world. It is great for keeping in touch with friends and family, as well as showing off your personal and professional accomplishments.
If you are currently navigating a divorce, social media can have some harmful effects. Here are a few things to watch for, and how to avoid online issues with your ex-spouse.
How social media can hamper divorces
Use of social media during divorce can cause legal and emotional effects. If you are in a custody battle with your ex-spouse, negative language and conflict can work against you in the eyes of the court. For instance, if the judge determines that you are not acting in the best interest of your child, it can alter the custody arrangement.
Use of social media can also impact you emotionally. Seeing stories about your former spouse and their new relationships can inflame bitterness and resentment on your part. You may also find it more difficult to move forward with your life in a meaningful way if you are constantly reminded of your previous marriage.
What you should do instead
Most attorneys and mental health professionals advise clients to avoid the use of social media altogether when going through a divorce. Closing down your profiles ensures that the posts you make will not come back to haunt you later during divorce proceedings. You can also experience greater peace of mind when you are not constantly keeping tabs on your former spouse.
If you must use social media for work or because of your kids, refrain from saying anything negative about your ex or the situation. You should also unfriend and unfollow your former spouse, as well as their family members, so you do not get drawn into the conflict.
Additionally, make sure your profile has the highest privacy settings available. Keep in mind that your posts, even relatively innocent statements, can pop up in court to make an argument against you.
