Lisa and Mark are an example of how entertainment strains the intimacy and trust in a marriage. Lisa spends hours scrolling through social media every evening, engaging with online content, but rarely talks to Mark. She often compares their relationship to the seemingly perfect marriages she sees online, leading to dissatisfaction. Mark, feeling ignored and criticized, withdraws into watching sports, further widening the emotional gap between them.*
Entertainment addiction occurs when a person excessively consumes media to the point that it interferes with their responsibilities, relationships and overall well-being. Providing a path to escape stress, anxiety and emotional pain, it also triggers the release of dopamine. This neurotransmitter activates the reward system in our bodies, reinforcing habits of overuse. This can create dependency, where a person seeks media entertainment for comfort instead of engaging with his or her spouse.
How Entertainment Addiction Hurts Marriage
In today’s digital age, entertainment is more accessible than ever. But when it becomes excessive—like any addiction—it can quietly erode the connection in a marriage. Let me explain.
- Weakens Communication
A couple that is not engaged in meaningful conversations will struggle with unresolved conflicts and misunderstandings. - Creates Emotional Distance
When solo entertainment becomes your primary source of joy, your spouse is likely to feel abandoned. - Reduces Time Together
Shared activities and bonding moments are replaced with solo entertainment, leading to a decline in affection and physical intimacy. - Fuels Resentment
The spouse who feels ignored may grow bitter, leading to increased tension. - Encourages Unhealthy Comparisons
Excessive media consumption can create unrealistic expectations about love, intimacy and success.
How to Protect Your Marriage from Entertainment Addiction
Here are several biblical principles to guide couples who struggle with excessive entertainment consumption in their marriage.
- Prioritize God and Your Marriage Over Distractions (Matt. 6:33)
Screen time should never come before your relationship with God or your spouse. Ask: Is this drawing us toward God or away? Is it strengthening or straining our marriage? - Avoid Idolatry in Media Consumption (1 John 5:21)
When solo entertainment replaces time with your spouse, it has become unhealthy. Track your screen time and emotional attachment to media. Set screen-free times, like meals and bedtime, to promote meaningful interaction. - Guard Your Heart and Mind (Prov. 4:23)
Entertainment shapes thoughts and desires. Be mindful of content that promotes unhealthy views of marriage or fulfillment. Consider if you’re using media to avoid conflict, self-soothe or fill a void. - Strengthen Your Emotional and Physical Connection (Eph. 5:33)
Love, respect and mutual care require presence. Set aside time daily to check in with your spouse. Engage in shared, real-life activities like walking, cooking or exploring together.
Entertainment isn’t inherently harmful, but unchecked media habits can undermine key aspects of a healthy marriage, such as communication, intimacy and trust. By applying biblical wisdom and setting clear boundaries, couples can cultivate a God-honoring marriage that prioritizes real-life connection over virtual distractions.
*This couple is a composite of real-life situations.
