THe INterNet AND FAMILY reLAtIoNS
SYDNEY Muchemwa, a graduate from the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) in Bulawayo’s movie, The Night’s: Genesis, has brought to light an issue that many might not have been paying much attention to.
The issue of how the internet has negatively affected family relations.
While Muchemwa (25)’s movie sheds light on the consequences of family members unknowingly getting involved in romantic relationships, it also highlights the negative impact of the internet on family relations.
The movie, titled The Night’s: Genesis, delves into the consequences of family members unknowingly getting involved in romantic relationships due to a lack of familiarity.
In an interview, Muchemwa expressed his motivation behind creating this thought-provoking film.
“I want to teach people the importance of family gatherings to avoid future problems like family members getting married because they do not know that they are related,” he explained
He further emphasised that modern technology has replaced traditional family visits, leaving the younger generation vulnerable to such unfortunate situations.
“It is only the adults who already know each other that are safe; the children are not safe because they do not know who is who,” he added.
The Night’s: Genesis revolves around the story of a young girl named Mbali, who unknowingly falls in love with her brother after meeting him at university.
The shocking revelation occurs when her uncle pays her a visit at school.
Muchemwa shared that the movie’s entire cast consists of Nust students, as these issues predominantly affect young people. He believes it is crucial for older generations to understand the role they play in preventing such incidents.
The movie serves as a wake-up call for society, urging individuals to prioritise family connections and actively engage in strengthening these bonds.
By highlighting the consequences of ignorance and the potential harm it can cause, Muchemwa hopes to inspire change and foster a greater sense of unity within families.
In today’s digital age, people are more connected than ever before, but ironically, they are also more disconnected from their families.
Social media and other internetbased activities have replaced traditional family gatherings, leading to a lack of communication and understanding between family members.
The internet has also made it easier for people to hide their true identities, leading to situations where family members may unknowingly engage in romantic relationships.
Dating apps and social media platforms have made it easier for people to meet new people, but they have also made it easier for people to deceive others.
In some cases, family members may not even know that they are related until it is too late. The negative impact of the internet on family relations is not limited to romantic relationships. Social media has also been linked to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially among young people.
Prince Ncube, an expert in family dynamics, emphasises the detrimental effects of excessive internet use on family relationships.
He states: “The internet has created a virtual world that can easily overshadow the real world. Family members may prioritise
Sydney Muchemwa
their online lives over their relationships with loved ones, leading to feelings of neglect, isolation and even resentment.”
Muchemwa’s movie highlights the importance of family gatherings and the negative impact of the internet on family relations.
While the internet has undoubtedly brought many benefits, it is essential to remember the importance of face-to-face communication and spending time with loved ones.
By doing so, we can strengthen our family bonds and prevent future problems like family members unknowingly getting involved in romantic relationships.