The internet is now the most important
mode of communication throughout the world, influencing not only everyday lives
but also global politics. Social networking is not a new concept. In fact in
has been around for more than many years with new networking sites being
developed almost every year. As people try to keep up with the “latest” they do
not realize how this may become a problem in the long run mentally, socially
and physically. There are many reasons as to why social networks may influence
our lives in negative ways. With
applications created for smart phones and communication devices, it is even easier
for people to access preventing them from communicating with those around them
more often. Here are 3 main reasons that I feel relate to others in this day
and age.
- Leads to addiction and isolation
- Affecting productivity
- Cyber bulling
1.
Addiction and isolation: Experts believe that social media
sites and public forums may be addictive as they play into the internet
addiction phenomenon. An addiction as such may be diagnosed as a mental
disorder called “internet addiction disorder”. However, this will only become a
problem and become extreme if these networks begin interfering with your daily
activities and keep you from going about your day to day business. It may also
become a problem if you prefer the company and comfort of your online friends
over your “real friends”.
2.
Affecting
productivity: When spending too much time “interacting” or idling away on the
social network, we do not realize how much time we waste and consume if time is
not kept to a minimum. In situations such as the work environment where
companies and offices have the need to shut down and install programs which
prevent workers from logging into sites due to taking up too much time from
what they should be doing. Affecting productivity can also include those who
work in offices, students who need to concentrate on their school assignments
but always get side tracked to check on their “pages” or even just a daily
check up on the internet itself see people staying on it for more than the
amount of time they should be.
3.
Cyber Bullying:
Although social media networks are created for people to communicate and keep in
touch with each other, it may also create controversy opinions, which can
sometimes create arguments just by different opinions shared amongst the network.
Real life arguments and situations can also be brought into the social network
creating tension and barriers between “online friends” having to choose sides. The
social media can be our best friend at times and other times it can also be our
worst nightmare. Cyber bullying is a common thing to happen and take place between
the younger generations which may cause youth to suicidal incidents just to end
everything. It may be over bearing and a bit too much for others to handle
also.
