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Are online greetings widening social distance?

A general view of Eid celebration in Dubai. Online greetings have eliminated direct human interaction and emotional expressions. (AFP File)
  • Experts say virtual communication eliminates emotional expressions, but also creates channels for dialogue for many individuals
  • Posting too many Eid greetings simultaneously can create distractions and communication difficulties, they point out

KUWAIT CITY – Online Eid greetings have contributed to distancing members of society from each other and have eliminated the direct human impact, interaction, and expressions, such as body language and emotions, said an expert.

Ahmad Al-Ruwayeh, a Kuwait-based psychologist, however acknowledged that these contacts in the virtual realm have helped some people who suffer from loneliness to compensate for emotional emptiness and have created channels for dialogue for many individuals.

Ahmad Al-Ruwayeh

Another expert said the use of Eid greeting video clips and e-cards has become widespread among people due to the boom of social media applications, which have opened up new fast communication channels.

Jarrah Al-Qazzaa, the director of public relations at the Kuwaiti Journalists Society, noted that the availability of advanced mobile phone devices with diverse applications and designs has contributed to the noticeable dissemination of electronic Eid greetings.

Many people pay fees to design Eid video clips or greeting cards to stand out from others, particularly young people who seek to impress their audience and receivers.

While some well-wishers prefer to post pictures instead of texts, they may encounter issues such as neglecting the recipients’ age or sharing irrelevant content.

Moreover, posting too many items simultaneously can create distractions and communication difficulties, said Al-Qazza.