Vernetzt und verbunden: Kann man auch digital ein gutes Gespräch führen?

Connecting and staying linked: Can digital communication foster meaningful conversations?

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, many people find themselves yearning for more time to connect with friends and family. Instant messaging apps and social media platforms have become the go-to methods for maintaining relationships, but can these digital channels truly replicate the depth of in-person discussions? Sociologist Marie-Kristin Döbler from the Institute for Social Science Research (ISF) in Munich believes that digital communication presents both challenges and opportunities.

According to her, the key to having a genuine conversation lies in how it is utilized and whether people remain attentive rather than just reacting quickly. Responding only with emojis, thumbs up, or smiling faces is unlikely to lead to a meaningful dialogue. "After all, a person fades away when they are just one of many smileys left behind.

They become interchangeable," Döbler explains. To initiate a conversation, personal inquiry is crucial. If you wish to show genuine interest, responding to a status update or post with a personal question can pave the way for a real discussion. "Essentially, it's all about how the communication takes place, regardless of the medium," she emphasizes.

For Döbler, the most important advice for meaningful exchange, whether online or offline, is to truly listen to the other person and demonstrate interest.