This study investigates the impact of digital technology on social relationships and community dynamics in contemporary society. This study aims to explore how digital tools affect communication patterns, emotional intimacy, social support networks, community participation, identity formation, and collective action. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it combines surveys and in-depth interviews to analyze social relationships, along with qualitative case studies with participant observation and content analysis to examine community dynamics. The sample encompassed diverse age groups and social backgrounds to ensure comprehensive insights. The findings reveal that digital technology increases the frequency of social contact and enables more diverse social networks while concurrently reducing face-to-face interactions and weakening emotional closeness. Emotional support is perceived variably, with enhancement on some platforms and dilution on others. In community contexts, hybrid communities emerge that blend online and offline interactions, fostering civic engagement but also exposing challenges, such as uneven access, polarization, and diminished trust. These results underscore the dual role of digital technology as both a connector and divider within social and community spheres. The study concluded that digital technology significantly influences mental health, social capital, and community resilience. It is recommended to foster meaningful digital interactions and promote digital inclusivity to mitigate adverse effects. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to assess the long-term social consequences and evolving nature of digital communities.
Dr. Monika Sharma (Wed,) studied this question.