Blocking a contact within the Messenger application, while maintaining their presence on a user’s Facebook friend list, is a specific feature. This functionality allows for restricted communication through the messaging platform without affecting the broader social media connection. As an example, a user might choose to prevent an individual from sending messages via Messenger but still view their posts and profile on Facebook.
This separation of communication channels offers greater control over online interactions. It provides a means to manage unwanted messages or interactions through Messenger without necessarily ending the entire Facebook relationship. Historically, social media platforms have evolved to provide users with more granular control over their privacy and communication preferences, reflecting an increasing awareness of online boundaries.