Illinois couples who spend less time on social media may have stronger marriages than those who use social media sites more frequently. A study conducted by several organizations and Boston University found a decrease in marriage satisfaction correlated with more social media activity. People who are considering divorce might want to consider significantly curtailing their social media use.
They may want to review past posts and delete some of them. They may also want to check their privacy settings and delete anyone who is likely to cause problems. Anything posted on social media might be used in a contentious divorce. Couples who are going through a relatively amicable divorce might want to agree on how they will announce the end of the marriage on social media. Some parents may also feel strongly about how much information about their children is shared on social media. They can include guidelines about this in the divorce agreement.
After the divorce, people should still try to avoid badmouthing an ex-spouse. They may still share social and professional networks. Furthermore, if there are children, things people say online might still be used to modify custody arrangements or change child support agreements.
For example, a parent may have claimed to have very little income in order to avoid paying more in child support. If that parent then posts on social media about expensive purchases, this could be used as evidence that the parent has been dishonest and should pay more. A parent might also use evidence from social media to claim the child is in danger. However, parents should make sure they only do so if they genuinely believe the child is unsafe with the other parent. A judge may look unfavorably on a parent who appears to be uncooperative or is interfering in the child’s relationship with the other parent.