In an era dominated by digital communication, a comprehensive review of over 1,000 studies has revealed that while technology-driven interactions are better than none, they fall short of the benefits offered by face-to-face meetings. Researchers have found that individuals experience lower levels of engagement and fewer positive emotional responses when using technology, such as video calls or texting, compared to in-person interactions.
The findings, published on January 6, 2026, in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science, highlight the limitations of digital communication. Brad Bushman, co-author of the study and a professor of communication at The Ohio State University, emphasized the importance of in-person interaction, stating,
“If there is no other choice than computer-mediated communication, then it is certainly better than nothing. But if there is a possibility of meeting in person, then using technology instead is a poor substitute.”
The Impact of “Socializing Alone”
Lead author Roy Baumeister, a professor of psychology at the University of Queensland, remarked on the permanence of electronic communication in modern life. He noted,
“Electronic communication is here to stay, so we need to learn how to integrate it into our lives. But if it replaces live interactions, you’re going to be missing some important benefits and probably be less fulfilled.”
Social interactions are crucial for both psychological and physical health. However, the researchers describe computer-mediated communication as “socializing alone,” where one is technically connecting with others but remains physically isolated. This raises the question of whether such interactions can truly fulfill the social needs of individuals.
Research Findings on Communication Methods
The narrative review, encompassing 1,158 studies, compared “face-to-face” with “computer-mediated” communication. The main conclusion was that socializing alone leads to reduced impact and engagement. Positive emotional responses were notably diminished when communicating through digital devices such as smartphones, computers, and tablets.
Highlighting the superiority of in-person communication, Bushman pointed to the health benefits of laughter, which are absent when merely typing “LOL” in a text. Another significant finding was the superior educational outcomes in face-to-face classes compared to online learning, a difference underscored during the COVID-19 pandemic when education shifted online.
Video Calls vs. Texting
The research indicated that video calls are more effective than texting in enhancing positive emotions, as they offer a more immediate and engaging form of communication. Texting and other non-live communication methods, being removed in both time and space, provide less benefit to participants.
Mixed Emotions and Online Interactions
While computer-mediated communication may alleviate certain anxieties, especially for shy individuals who prefer typing their thoughts, it also has a darker side. The anonymity and distance of online interactions can reduce inhibitions, leading to more negative comments than one might express in person.
Engagement and Motivation in Digital Communication
According to Bushman and Baumeister, computer-mediated communication is most effective when participants are highly motivated and engaged. This is often observed in online psychotherapy, committed work environments, and among romantic partners. Baumeister noted,
“I was struck that studies showed patients thought video therapy worked as well or almost as well as in person when their engagement levels were high. There may even be a bit of benefit in that people seem less inhibited talking about their problems in video therapy.”
Despite the undeniable benefits of modern communication technology, the review underscores the costs associated with its use. Bushman remarked,
“Humans were shaped by evolution to be highly social. But many of the benefits of social interactions are lost or reduced when you interact with people who are not present with you.”
Historical Context and Future Implications
The researchers noted that concerns about the impact of technology on human communication are not new. Nearly a century ago, sociologists worried that the telephone would diminish face-to-face interactions with neighbors. While history is filled with unconfirmed predictions of technological disaster, the authors caution against dismissing the early signs of digital communication’s limitations.
As society continues to navigate the digital landscape, the challenge remains to balance the convenience of technology with the irreplaceable value of in-person interactions. The study’s co-authors, including Michaela Bibby of Harvard University and Dianne Tice of Brigham Young University, call for a nuanced approach to integrating technology into our social lives, ensuring that it complements rather than replaces face-to-face communication.
