Social networking is a tool used by people all around the world. Its purpose is to promote and aid communication. However, this type of technology might be doing more harm than good. It is not only changing how we communicate, but how we interact with each other in daily life. Sarah Zay, of USA Today, stated that “With the rise of websites such as Facebook, social networking may be on the verge of replacing traditional personal interactions for the next generation” (1).Traditional interactions will continue to be at risk if we don’t realize the effects of our social media. Social networking affects our lives in many ways, including our communication, self- expression, bullying, isolations, friendships, and even our very own sense of humanity.
Social networks, such as Facebook, were created for the sole purpose of helping individuals communicate. There are many other reasons that these technologies are used, but communication is still the number one. Many people use these networks to talk to their friends in other cities, states, or even other countries. There are many situations that do not allow the use of telephones; this is why social networking is preferable by many. These networks not only allow communication between friends, but allow you to meet new people. Similarities and common friends can create new bonds. This allows one’s social circle to expand. If you ask around how people think social networking affects them, many will say that they, “Have an expanded circle of social connections, and stay in touch more” (PC Magazine Online 2).These networks are becoming the modern way to make friends. These new friends communicate through these networks. However, standard communication is not the only way this social technology is used.
On these networking sites, users normally create pages that represent them in some way. They post pictures of themselves and their friends. Their friends comment on these