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A common characteristic of family groups is the tendency for members to share bad jokes, memes and forwarded messages. While most people find this annoying, Dr. Mathai argues that it is an essential part of the family experience.
“Humour is essential for any group, and especially for family WhatsApp groups,” she says. “It is wrong to suppose that a group is useless simply because nothing happens beyond sharing jokes.”
“I am in several groups. In a group whose sole purpose is communication, like the estate group, I expect the communication to be about matters surrounding my life in the neighbourhood, so the forwarded jokes might feel out of place. But do not underestimate the power of these jokes and forwards in bonding the family. Laughter is the best medicine, and in this case, it brings the family closer together. For this reason, a family group is beneficial. It is important not to take yourself too seriously.”
She adds that: “A good family group has no real purpose beyond bonding.”
Dr. Mathai agrees that it is another way technology is taking us away from personal interaction, but we have to embrace change.
“Face to face communication is always better, and nothing can ever replace it, but we have to change with the times. When phones first showed up, everyone complained that they would ruin personal interactions, but we got used to it. That is the way with all communication.”
“It is a reflection of our time. The world is becoming more digital, and we must move with the times.”
