Social Networking

Social networking is intent on building communities on the internet. Just like any club it focuses on introducing people to one another who share a mutual interest, hobby or work in a similar industry etc. As most of these operate on the internet, the communication is usually via email, instant messenger services, profiles, internal email systems and photos. Instead of talking, it is ‘posting’ or uploading visual media.These sites are being used regularly by millions of people and have become a part of modern life.

Around eighty percent of the total UK. online population visit a social networking site each month, with Facebook and Bebo attracting the most unique visitors according to data from comScore's World Metrix audience measurement service. Facebook is overwhelmingly the most popular site at the moment.

Social networking is a fairly recent phenomenon which really took off in 2005. Overall, it is the second most popular online activity and this is not likely to change in a hurry. For the most part it is an enjoyable part of modern life. However there is a dark side.

There are certain rules of etiquette, or netiquette but often these are blatantly ignored, as when cyber bullying arises. The internet serves as a magnet for bullies and stalkers. This unpleasant behaviour can take a variety of forms, from generally unpleasant remarks posted anonymously to wilful harm, which has been considered responsible for a number of suicides of young people. It is also a draw for sexual predators and paedophiles. To learn about cyberbullying

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