Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood has shared a poignant perspective on a growing modern-day dilemma: the increasing emotional distance between couples. In a recent interview, Sood identified a new 'member' in the family as a primary culprit - the mobile phone.
The Digital Intruder in Relationships
Sonu Sood pinpointed excessive digital exposure as a core issue affecting modern relationships. He stated that constant internet connectivity has created a scenario where individuals are perpetually knowledgeable and bombarded with information, leading to numerous diversions. The actor emphasized that this leaves significantly less time for family, creating a void filled by digital devices.
"A different member has come into your life, which is your mobile phone," Sood remarked during his conversation with CurlyTales. He expressed concern that people are becoming more attached to virtual worlds that aren't truly theirs, thereby neglecting their real-world relationships and connections.
The Vanishing Art of Listening
The actor highlighted another critical casualty of the digital age: patience. He observed that people have developed remarkably little patience to listen to each other, considering this development particularly unfortunate. Sood stressed the importance of setting phones aside to genuinely listen to one another in today's internet-dominated world.
"If you can't listen to someone, I think it's very unfortunate," Sood stated. He advocated for open communication about problems, asserting that this simple practice could resolve numerous relationship issues if couples would consciously implement it in their daily lives.
Expert Validation: The Psychological Impact
Clinical psychologist Kamna Chhibber supported Sood's observations with professional insight. She confirmed that being constantly digitally connected can strain any relationship through multiple mechanisms. According to Chhibber, this constant connectivity can fundamentally alter relationship dynamics by shifting power balances, changing the sense of control between partners, and significantly affecting dependency levels.
"Communication can get impacted," Chhibber stated, echoing Sood's concerns about the deterioration of meaningful interaction between partners. She emphasized that mutual respect forms the bedrock of any healthy relationship, and digital distractions directly undermine this foundation.
The Path to Healthier Relationships
Experts recommend specific strategies to counter these digital relationship challenges. Chhibber emphasized that couples who appreciate each other's efforts and actively listen to their partners maintain optimal support levels, which is crucial for relationship health. The ability to celebrate a partner's success and face challenges together strengthens the relationship's core foundation.
Chhibber strongly urged people to consciously spend quality time without their phones. "It encourages both people to share the good and the bad and come together more effectively to tackle the different life scenarios," she explained. This dedicated, device-free time creates space for genuine connection and problem-solving that digital interactions cannot replicate.
The insights from both Sonu Sood and relationship experts point toward a clear solution: intentional digital detoxification and a renewed focus on authentic, present-moment connection as essential remedies for modern relationship struggles.