Many students talk with friends by sending direct messages on apps like Instagram. Some people think this makes friendships stronger. Does chatting through an app really make friendships better, or does it cause new problems?

Direct messages can help friends stay in touch every day. Students can send photos, funny videos, or quick messages, even when friends live far away or go to a different school. For many students, sending a DM feels easier than calling or meeting in person.
However, some experts worry about spending too much time chatting online. Texting all day can mean less time talking face-to-face. Some students may also feel left out when they see friends posting photos or messages without them. A quick “like” or short reply can feel less caring than a real conversation.
Many experts say apps like Instagram are not the problem. The real question is how people use them. Sending a kind message or making plans to meet a friend in person can make a DM helpful. Scrolling alone for hours, without really talking to anyone, does not build real friendships.
In the end, direct messages can help or hurt friendships, depending on how people use them. Meeting friends in person, talking on the phone, and sending real, caring messages all still matter. Apps can support friendships, but they cannot replace real conversations.
Think About It
What is one way you could use a DM to make a friendship stronger?
브릿지프레스 편집부 | contact@bridgepress.co.kr