Modern Love in a Digital World: When Scrolling Becomes Emotional Distance
Social media is woven into our daily lives—but in romantic relationships, it often becomes a source of conflict, disconnection, and misunderstanding.
Drawing from original research and clinical experience, Dr. Nicole Lee explores how perceived social media use as escapism—rather than screen time alone—significantly impacts relationship satisfaction. Her research found that when individuals experience their partner’s social media use as emotional withdrawal, relationship satisfaction decreases by over 22%.
Using a relational and psychologically informed framework, Dr. Lee reframes social media as a form of nonverbal communication—one that conveys presence, absence, desire, and meaning. Her talks move beyond blame or digital detoxes and instead offer insight into how couples can rebuild connection, improve communication, and renegotiate intimacy in a digital world.
Dr. Nicole Lee is a licensed clinician and researcher whose work examines the intersection of social media, perception, and relationship satisfaction. Her research has been published and presented in academic and professional settings, and she brings a warm, engaging, and accessible style to complex relational topics
Available Speaking Topics
1. It’s Not the Phone: How Perceived Social Media Use Impacts Relationship Satisfaction
An evidence-based exploration of how perception—not screen time—shapes emotional connection and conflict in modern relationships.
2. Scrolling Apart: Social Media as Nonverbal Communication in Romantic Relationships
A deep dive into how digital behaviors communicate emotional presence, disengagement, and relational meaning.
3. Modern Intimacy in a Digital Age
Why couples fight about phones, what those fights are really about, and how to rebuild connection without demonizing technology.
4. From Phubbing to Perception: What Clinicians and Educators Need to Know
A research- and practice-informed talk for professionals working with couples, students, or families navigating digital life.
These talks are well suited for:
- Professional conferences and continuing education events
– Universities and academic settings
– Mental health and healthcare organizations
– Community organizations and relationship education programs
– Corporate wellness or leadership events focused on communication and connection
Audiences leave with:
-A new, research-grounded way to understand digital conflict in relationships
– Language to discuss emotional presence and perception without blame
– Practical insights for improving communication and relational satisfaction
– A deeper understanding of how meaning—not technology itself—shapes intimacy