Social networking sites (referred to more broadly as social media) are a collection of websites and applications that enable users to swap ideas, post updates and comments, and participate in activities and events while sharing their interests with other users. From general chit-chat to propagating breaking news, scheduling a date to following election results, gentle humor to serious research, social networking sites are used for a variety of reasons by various user communities. Nowadays, nearly every person who has access to a computer and Internet indulges in some kind of social networking on a daily basis. The introduction of social media has changed the entire dynamics of our lifestyles: the ways we live, work, and maintain our friendships. Despite its numerous advantages, social media does yield some negative effects. However, the benefits of social media greatly outweigh its negative effects.
Social networking sites allow people to communicate and remain in contact with friends as well as meet new people. These sites allow people to find others with similar interests that they can create a relationship with and get to know one another. Groups can be joined or formed to meet people with similar interests, and views. Social networking allows for creative expression by using tools such as blogging and messaging to post ideas and stories (Claywell). Users can also share poems, music, TV shows, hobbies, photos, and many other things. Social networking is undisputedly one of the easiest ways to keep in touch with family and friends. Even if relatives or friends don’t stay in touch, they can still get an idea of what their cherished ones are up to or how they are doing through social media. For example, Facebook has recently launched Safety Check, a tool used by people during disasters. People can mark themselves safe during any calamity and it will automatically notify their friends of their safety (Chauhan).
Not only can social media be used to talk to friends, but it can also be used for educational and health purposes. Social networking is said to increase a person's quality of life, and can reduce health risks (“Social Media Use”). Studies show that adolescents’ use of social media results in improved medication adherence, fewer missed health care appointments, and a better understanding of their health (“Social Media Use”). Those with chronic or acute diseases can connect with others through social media, which may offer a source of support for coping with various conditions (“Social Media Use”). Many people have reported that they did not have any negative experiences with social networking, and schools are starting to look at it as an educational tool (Lederer). Some public schools have even created a secure social network for their students to be able to communicate with other students in a safe way (Lederer). Social networking helps improve the technological skills of students, and exposes them to many diverse views. It also helps with communication skills, and allows the learning of cultures from all over the world. In this way, social media can end widespread stereotypes engendered by gender, caste, color or religion (Chauhan). Students can also use social networking to discuss homework with peers online, and to get help on assignments. Sixty percent of students using social networks have said that they talk about education, and fifty percent have specifically said that they talk about homework assignments (Lederer). Through social media, people can acquire an extraordinary set of 21st century skills like communication, creativity, collaboration, leadership skills and technology proficiency.
Social networking sites do not just benefit individuals, but they can also benefit businesses as well, which in turn may benefit the global economy. These sites allow businesses to advertise and market services to a large audience. Numerous businesses have created profiles to advertise in a low cost way (Sanchez). Businesses can gain more profit if they advertise on social networks because all users of the social networks can see their profiles. Also, businesses can use social networks to learn about potential employees, and make decisions based on the information provided by a person's profile (Evans).
Social media is an enhanced tool, which has significantly improved connectivity and social awareness, but it is not without faults. Scientific studies have shown that social media has resulted in reduced concentration among students, high levels of discontent with one’s life, and spread of misinformation (Claywell). Other negative effects include cyber bullying, Internet addiction, and sleep deprivation (Clark). The risks associated with using social networks are well-documented. One of the biggest concerns has to do with privacy and safety, particularly with regard to children and teenagers, but also with adults. Nearly four in five ex-burglars have indicated that thieves watch social media to look for potential opportunities (Claywell). This is because 57% of people post something about their travel plans, like a photo from the airport or "checking in" at the hotel, effectively telling would-be burglars when they should break in (Claywell). The example mentioned above points out that technology itself is neutral; it doesn’t force one to act in specific ways. It is the responsibility of the user to use social networking constructively, and parents must be especially careful to monitor their children's use of social media to minimize the potential for negative outcomes (Clark). It is the need of the day that we create a general awareness about how to use social media for the betterment of the society and once we learn this, it is highly plausible that social media will enumerate its benefits in society.
Social networking sites are continuously advancing, and trying to eliminate negative effects. There are still problems that need to be fixed, but the positive effects of social media far outweigh its negative effects. Social media can be a valuable tool if used correctly. It can positively affect the world by improving the global economy, allowing people to keep in touch with each other, and spreading knowledge. By using these platforms responsibly, we can harness the benefits of social networking while avoiding the potential drawbacks.