Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) addresses social media through its strong evidence base: most social media is connected to relationship problems, and improving relationships improves social media.
The Four IPT Focus Areas for Social Media
IPT targets one of four interpersonal problem areas that typically accompany social media:
- Grief: Loss and bereavement contributing to social media
- Role disputes: Conflicts in important relationships driving social media
- Role transitions: Life changes creating adjustment-related social media
- Interpersonal deficits: Limited social skills or relationships sustaining social media
IPT vs. CBT for Social Media
While CBT targets thoughts and behaviors, IPT targets relationships and communication. Both are highly effective for social media — the best choice depends on the primary driver.
What IPT for Social Media Looks Like
IPT for social media typically runs 12-20 sessions, with early sessions identifying the interpersonal focus area, middle sessions working on it, and later sessions consolidating gains.