Is online networking harmful?

“People’s health could be harmed by social networking sites because they reduce levels of face-to-face contact, an expert claims.”

“… evidence suggests that a lack of face-to-face networking could alter the way genes work, upset immune responses, hormone levels, the function of arteries, and influence mental performance.”

“… research suggests the number of hours people spend interacting face-to-face has fallen dramatically since 1987, as the use of electronic media has increased.”

Online networking ‘harms health’ BBC News, February 19th, 2009.

However, as Helen says on Reach Further, the use of Social Network sites “can be a part of each person’s social network that supports health and well-being.” As the technology and Socal Networks are still in their infancy, is it too soon to make such bold statements?

“It just hasn’t been around long enough yet for behaviour to become normalised. The technology can still get in the way. With good moderation, online spaces provide an additional – not replacement – social space with different affordances i.e. it’s good for different types of interactions.”