One action severs the digital tie completely, removing the individual from the user’s social network and preventing them from seeing the user’s content unless the user’s profile is public. The other action allows the user to remain connected as virtual acquaintances, where the user will not see the individual’s posts in their feed but remains on their friend list. For example, one might choose to sever the tie with a former colleague to avoid seeing their posts, while simply not seeing a distant relative’s content while still maintaining a virtual connection.
Understanding the distinction is important for managing the social media experience. It allows individuals to curate their news feeds for relevance and positivity without necessarily creating social awkwardness or damaging relationships. The advent of social media has seen a rise in these subtle forms of social management, allowing individuals to control the information they consume and the connections they maintain.