Impact of Social Network Sites (SNS)
Despite a wealth of literature on the effects of social media on those who are the largest
consumers of social media, there continues to be inconsistencies found within the empirical research
done. Much debate still exists concerning the implications of the usage of Social Network Sites (SNS) on
the academic, social and the psychological well-being of adolescents (Ahn 2011).
Prolonged exposure to the internet can make users susceptible to online risks such as cyber
bullying, sexual solicitation, online violence and pornographic material. Ahn (2011) highlights a study
done by Kraut et al. (1998) in which it was found that there were negative impacts of longer times spent
on the internet. There was some relation found between the longer time spent using the internet and
“increased depression, loneliness and smaller social circles” (p. 8). Additionally, “the results suggest that
Internet use isolates individuals from their friends and family, and has a negative impact on one’s
psychological well-being. This effect is known as the reduction hypothesis (Valkenburg & Peter, 2009a)”
(p. 8). Inferences can be made from the article that these effects are perhaps more in line with the
personal attributes of the individual rather than the actual social media platforms. Ahn (2011) provides
scholarly examples that refute the suggestions found in Kraut et al.’s study. Interestingly, a longitudinal
follow-up that was also done by Kraut et al. (2002) could not find any correlation between longer use of
internet with loneliness and depression (p. 7).
On the other hand, internet connection offers numerous layers of rewards for participants.
Using social media sites provide benefits and risks for users. There in exists an enhanced capacity to cast
all fears aside due to one’s ability to be anonymous. It is through social media sites that users can
compensate for any social shortcomings in their offline lives. Conceivably, adolescents can also
strengthen their social relations through social media. Although there have been arguments made that
the time spent on social media sites reduces the actual time spent interacting with family members; the
facilitation of users’ photos, family history and so forth also allows for communication with family
members across long distances. Ahn (2011) reiterates that research shows that these social network
sites are being used in large volume to connect people with other people that they know in their offline
lives (p. 7).
The structure of SNS and features can impact how people behave on the internet. Additionally,
the characteristics of SNS can determine the type of individual that utilizes the site. For example,
MySpace, and SNS, had a feature where persons highlighted their top 8 friends. As a result, teenagers
started to get into confrontations over most liked friend. Online socialization can assist with feelings of
loneliness. Ahn alludes that in many instances spending time on the internet can lead to the inculcation
of bad behavior if the user is exposed to material that is harmful. However, Ahn (2011) also makes note
that users can form a sense of belonging through their social media groups which can positively
influence their psychological well-being (p. 7). Social media participants can also have increased learning
opportunities and a greater access to information whether it be related to academics, health or so forth
(p. 6).