Review of 4 Articles and Reactions

Review of 4 Articles and Reactions
In Social Networking Websites and Teens, the survey attempts to provide an overview of teenage usage (ages to 12 to 17) of social networks. In regard to the survey, the "n" is 935, much less than the preferred target of 2000 when extrapolating to large numbers. In "Methods" 46% of those initially targeted for the study became a part of it. The results were analyzed. Boys and girls use the networks for slightly different reasons. Teens who go on line from home use the networks the most. Friendships are made and "managed." There are some concerns for personal safety and privacy.
Reaction
In regard to the study, not surprisingly, the survey found that greater than half of interviewed teens engaged in online social networks. Confidence is undermined by the fact that participants were "prompted" with two social sites: Facebook and MySpace. The information is not new. I am surprised it is not closer to 100% except for the availability of computers to all children. Not interviewing Spanish and other language speaking children is a limitation of the study. The need for positive discourse and trust between children and parents is underscored here.

In regard to my work setting and ethics, I really do not know anyone that is not connected to some type of social network. People trade pictures of children, coordinate activities, and discuss business on the internet quite frequently. Positive social interaction is a good thing and healthy for the heart.

In Your Guide to Social Networking Online, the reader is provided definitions for and a brief history of online networks and their usage. MySpace and Facebook are discussed and compared according to user definition, flexibility for profiles, and safety. Problems related to sustaining these giant sites are briefly discussed. Business networks are discussed. Other outlets for social interaction include news sites, photo sharing sites, and an information gathering and comparison site. A limited terminology review is presented and some related article and blog posts and social networking sites are presented.
Reaction
It is good to see there are so many things available to connect people. I am apart of some sites as well and enjoy them.

What Kind of Cyber Guide are You? is a short "quiz" for the reader, testing how he/she interacts with children and teens regarding internet usage. After taking the interactive quiz of sorts, suggestions are made to the participant for improvement.
In MySpace Cheat Sheet for Parents, reader is presented with a short list of FAQ in regards to surveillance of children's internet activities.
Reaction to both of the Above
I took the test: I am graded as a “Conversation Starter.” Though I appreciate the intent of these articles and quiz, the level of language and suggestions given are fairly elemental and condescending to parents.