Final answer:
The relationship between time spent online and loneliness is complex; both may have increased due to the rise of social media and changes in social interactions, but individual experiences can vary. Digital media has transformed communication, allowing for maintained distant connections while potentially isolating individuals from face-to-face interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between time spent online and loneliness in the last decade has been the subject of various studies and discussions. Some researchers argue that both time spent online and loneliness have dramatically increased, especially given the rise of social media platforms and the significant change in how people interact with one another. However, this relationship is complex and can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and how online time is being used.
Regarding digital media's impact on social interactions, it has transformed the way we communicate. On one hand, digital media has made it easier to maintain connections with friends and family regardless of distance, potentially deepening human connections. On the other hand, excessive use can lead to a sense of isolation and potentially weaken face-to-face interactions, which some argue increases feelings of loneliness.
The question of whether digital media has deepened or weakened human connections does not have a one-size-fits-all answer. It significantly depends on the way individuals use digital media and the extent to which it substitutes or complements their real-life interactions.