If your spouse seems more glued to their phone than engaged with you, you might be wondering: Is their social media addiction grounds for divorce?
In today’s hyper-connected world, social media has become a problem for some people. It keeps us linked to friends, family and the latest trends, BUT it can also strain relationships, sometimes to the breaking point.
If your spouse’s face is constantly glued to their phone, or they spend time posting and commenting on nonsense all day, they could have a problem. But that doesn’t mean it has to be YOUR problem.
At Martine Law, we’ve seen this question pop up more often as technology blurs the lines between healthy habits and destructive obsessions. Let’s break it down.
When Does Social Media Use Become a Problem?
It’s normal for people to scroll through X, Instagram, or TikTok to unwind or stay informed. But when does it cross into addiction territory? Experts often point to signs like these:
- Neglecting Responsibilities: If your spouse is shirking household duties, parenting or work because they’re lost in endless feeds, that’s a red flag.
- Emotional Disconnect: Are they more invested in online debates or likes than in your conversations? Emotional intimacy can erode when screens take priority.
- Time Sink: Hours disappear into the void of reels or posts, leaving little for real-life connection.
- Defensiveness: If you bring it up and they snap, dismiss or justify it excessively, it might signal a deeper issue.
If your spouse’s social media habit is tanking your marriage, you’re not alone. But does it legally justify a divorce? Our expert team of family law attorneys can help you sort it out. Contact us today.
Social Media Addiction and Divorce Law
In many states, including Minnesota, divorce can be pursued on no-fault grounds. A no-fault divorce will often cite irreconcilable differences. It doesn’t require proving wrongdoing.
If your spouse’s social media obsession has made your marriage unbearable, that could be enough. You’d simply tell the court the relationship is broken beyond repair. You don’t need to “bring the receipts” even if those receipts were damning for the other party.
The Practical Side: Is Divorce the Answer?
Before rushing to file, consider the bigger picture. Divorce is a big step, and social media addiction might not be the root issue. Maybe it’s a symptom of boredom, stress or unmet needs. Have you tried talking it out? Setting boundaries? Counseling? Sometimes, a spouse doesn’t realize how their scrolling hurts until it’s spelled out.
If a child of yours was showing signs of social media addiction, it is relatively simple to ground them from their phones, or take their phones away for a period of time. That approach doesn’t work so well with spouses, for obvious reasons.
That said, if your spouse’s habit has killed trust, intimacy or respect, and they refuse to change, divorce might be your best path to peace. Every marriage has its breaking point.
How We Can Help
At Martine Law, we’ve handled divorce cases where technology played a starring role. Whether it’s uncovering online affairs or proving neglect, we’ve seen it all.
If you’re wondering if your spouse’s social media addiction justifies a split, let’s talk. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and fight for what’s fair, whether that’s a fresh start or a wake-up call for your partner.
Contact us today for a consultation. If you are seriously asking if your spouse’s social media addiction is grounds for divorce, you deserve more than a retweet. You deserve results.