Are We Addicted To Social Media?
In Wednesday's Something Extra: you know the type, people who check their Facebook page every other minute, at dinner, at work, even while they're driving.
Two thirds of online American adults are on social media. That number is probably close to a hundred per cent for high school and college students.
But are we actually addicted to the social networks? A new Pew Research Center study says no, that we're just addicted to staying in touch with family and friends.
While some do use the networks to make new friends and connections, for most it's about deepening the bonds with those already important to us.
Surprisingly, only three per cent said finding romance was a major reason to use the sites. Eighty four per cent said they never used them to find love.
I'm all for connecting with those we care about through the internet... it can very useful.
But I worry we use social networks as a poor substitute for connecting with people in real life and wonder how this new way of interacting will change the world.
