Social media has changed the way people communicate with one another and this has impacted families and caregivers of children with special needs in a variety of ways. Facebook is amongst the largest online network that people use to connect to one another. According to a report released by Facebook.com, in 2011, they have a database of “800 million active users” (as cited in McAndrew 2359). Platforms such as Facebook are increasingly sought out by caregivers of children with disabilities to engage with others. As social media interaction continues to grow there are differing opinions on how this can benefit families. On the one hand, people view the ability to connect online as an enhancement to their lives and a tool to access resources.
…show more content…
In the article, “Why do people use Facebook?”, written by Ashwini Nadkarni and Stefan G. Hofmann, one of the reasons people use social media is “the need to belong” (245). It could be argued that people raising children with disabilities have a tougher time integrating their children into their own communities. So, the significant comfort that an online shared connection can bring to families is understandable. Additionally, Facebook offers a multitude of specialized groups, so parents can interact with several people who are going through the same things. Online group participation allows for caregivers to ask questions in an informal setting, and they can also be a useful way of finding local resources. For example, connecting with local organizations that support individuals with disabilities are often shared in group settings. Places like Gigi’s Playhouse, an organization that provides support across the nation to the families and individuals with Down syndrome, notify people on Facebook of upcoming events. Attending one of these events can be a way to encourage social participation outside of the home. Between connecting with others that have children with disabilities and having access to focused groups it seems there are several positive benefits social media provides to the special needs
In the article, “Why do people use Facebook?”, written by Ashwini Nadkarni and Stefan G. Hofmann, one of the reasons people use social media is “the need to belong” (245). It could be argued that people raising children with disabilities have a tougher time integrating their children into their own communities. So, the significant comfort that an online shared connection can bring to families is understandable. Additionally, Facebook offers a multitude of specialized groups, so parents can interact with several people who are going through the same things. Online group participation allows for caregivers to ask questions in an informal setting, and they can also be a useful way of finding local resources. For example, connecting with local organizations that support individuals with disabilities are often shared in group settings. Places like Gigi’s Playhouse, an organization that provides support across the nation to the families and individuals with Down syndrome, notify people on Facebook of upcoming events. Attending one of these events can be a way to encourage social participation outside of the home. Between connecting with others that have children with disabilities and having access to focused groups it seems there are several positive benefits social media provides to the special needs