Ethical Issues Of Social Networking

Introduction
Social networking refers to the use of mobile or internet-based social media for connecting with friends, communicating, creating and sharing content. There are numerous social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Live Journal play a pivotal role in influencing how the youth interact with their peers. The social networking sites present users with a myriad of ethical decisions about self disclosure, social propriety and acceptable behaviors (Ana M. Martinez Aleman, 2009). It is essential to appreciate the fact that social networking sites are considerably beneficial to users. Through these platforms, users can construct and represent their social networks and interact with vital organizations for various purposes. However, …show more content…
Research indicates that disclosure of personal information in users’ profiles enhances chances of individuals accruing immense benefits from social network sites. In fact, the information provided by users in their respective social network sites play a pivotal role in lowering barriers associated with initial interaction. Furthermore, disclosure of such information facilitates the creation of a common ground for different users since users with similar preferences can effectively link up. This means that social networking sites enable youthful users to interact with people who would otherwise be excluded from their normal list of contacts. These interactions between individuals are mainly based on shared interests as opposed to only interacting with people solely based on their geographical locations (Charles Steinfield, 2012). Social networking sites, therefore, play an integral part in maintaining communication and various forms of interactions amongst users who cannot interact face to …show more content…
Reports indicate that media reports are occasionally blown out of proportion. Nevertheless, social networking sites have been used in the past as a key medium for initiating criminal behavior. For instance, an Australian user, Carl Ryan fell in love with an anonymous user, which resulted in her death (Larisa Karklins, 2012). Similarly, there have been cases whereby serial rapists and other dangerous individuals lure unsuspecting youths to dangerous traps (Larisa Karklins, 2012). Sexual predation, harassment and bullying, fraud and scams are widely associated with social networking sites. In some instances, it is possible for youths on social networking sites to be exposed to exploitative advertising, which may have a negative implication on users’ behavior (Melissa de Zwart,