Why does likes and validation feel more important online than praise received offline?

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Why does likes and validation feel more important online than praise received offline?

Asked on Nov 29, 2025

Answer

The feeling that likes and validation online are more important than offline praise is often due to the immediate and quantifiable nature of online feedback, which can create a strong sense of social approval. This digital validation can feel more tangible because it's visible to a wide audience and can be quickly compared to others.

Example Explanation: Online platforms provide instant feedback through likes and comments, which can feel more impactful than offline praise because they are public and measurable. This creates a feedback loop where users seek more likes to boost their self-esteem, often leading to increased time spent on social media. The visibility of online validation can amplify its perceived importance, influencing how individuals value themselves and their interactions.

Additional Comment:

Online validation is often seen as a form of social currency.
Comparing likes can lead to social comparison and competition.
Being aware of this pattern can help balance online and offline validation.

✅ Answered with social media psychology best practices.

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