As an intern at Speakaboos, one of my many job requirements is helping find new ways to manage the website’s social media and networking accounts, many of which I personally use for sharing information with friends or followers. Growing up during the MySpace age, I can tell you my mom was nervous that I’d get myself into some trouble and after having seen a couple bad news stories, asked me to delete the account. I protested that it was the only way I could stay in touch with my friends. At 13, that was my main concern.Recent studies now question just how Facebook, MySpace, and other competing social networking sites can benefit – not harm – your teen’s development. It seems that Facebook and MySpace have bred a more well-adjusted population of adolescents. Contrary to popular belief, most teens are not friends with large numbers of strangers and use the websites to keep in touch with distant friends or maintain relationships outside of the classroom or off the field. In fact, the use of social media may be helping teens “shape their own identities,” according to a recent LA Times article. Now that Facebook has opened itself up to people of all ages, allowing parents and adults to join networks based on region as well as profession, parents are able to monitor their children’s use of the sites simply by adding them as a friend. In this way, parents have a bit of insight as to whether their children would be likely to throw themselves into harm’s way.According to the Digital Youth Project, “Most youth use online networks to extend the friendships that they navigate in the familiar contexts of school, religious organizations, sports, and other local activities.” It also notes that social media allows for interaction based on interest, hence the reason for joining a group on Facebook or joining a social network designed primarily for athletes. Social media gives a new meaning to friendships and allows for a casual, comfortable place where teens can express themselves. Flirtatious comments left on a friend’s “wall” will be seen by others, and in a way, can be thought of as a means of self-protection. In a way, the same school yard tensions and cliques can develop, but really, the only reason it seems frightening is that it’s not as clear cut as it was when my parents were children. Instead of the football players on one side of the lunchroom and the Mathletes on the other, it’s done digitally, often times reinforcing these boundaries but also reinforcing the connection these kids feel with one another. As a high school debater, I loved finding groups on Facebook where my debate peers came together to celebrate our tournaments and the activity; it gave me a sense of home and a really strong sense of community.What’s most important is just that teens (and parents) use these networks for constructive purposes. Cyber-bullying, sexting, and other forms of harassment are always a threat, but I feel like that is because most people fail to educate themselves of the legality and seriousness behind it. Like a threatening phone call, a threatening email can be held against you. Once your teen is made aware of these facts, all fears should subside.Do you let your kids use Facebook? If not, why? I’d love to hear your feedback!For more information on the Digital Youth Project or to read the original LA Times article please click here.
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