What Is Social Networking?

The issue of social networking was recently raised in my family when my 11 year old sister wanted to create an account on a well known site called Facebook. My parents refused to give her permission. To find the reasoning behind their disapproval I decided to conduct an investigation into what social networking is, the reason as to why it is so popular (especially with young children like my sister) and the advantages and disadvantages of social networking. This will also give me insight into why the majority of my peers regularly use these sites as well.

What is Social Networking?

Social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups. Although it is possible in person, it is most popular online. This is because the internet is filled with such diversity and people from all over the world use it making it more fun/interesting. Social networking websites such as Facebook, Myspace and Bebo allow internet users to communicate with each other and make connections - whether romantic, personal or professional. Making connections may include reading the profile pages of other members (Which can contain personal photos and information) or making contact with them through email, phone or private messaging. My research suggests that "Social networking services are changing the ways in which people use and engage with the Internet and with each other". I thoroughly agree with this statement as people can now interact with a wide number of people in such an easy way. In my parents generation their social interaction was limited to the people they met in school, workplace or hobbies.

Why is social networking so popular / appealing?

Information from the website socialnetworking.lovetoknow.com state that currently over 1 billion people are joined up to various social networking sites. I believe this is because they are free and provide appealing services to people of all ages, genders and nationalities. Children are most commonly attracted to social networking sites because of the interactive games they provide such as Farmville or Restaurant city. Teenagers join so that they can chat with their friends without the criticism or rejection that might occur in a face to face conversation. It also provides the opportunity for teenagers to widen their circle of friends or acquaintances. Social networking helps adults to keep in touch with family members who live far away, plan reunions or share pictures - from the comfort of their own home. The sites also provide an alternative to the traditional way of finding love. People are social animals and I believe that social networking sites are popular because they make it easier and affordable for us to fulfill a basic human need.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of social networking?

Social Networking

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