The Importance Of Social Networking In Our Society

Social Networking sites have grown more and more popular as technology has improved. It is almost impossible to walk down a crowded street and not see at least two people on their cell phone, tablet, or laptop. As social networking becomes more and more important in our daily lives, the idea of face to face conversation is no longer given any importance. Studies indicate a dramatic increase in depression especially in adolescents. It is estimated about ten to fifteen percent of children and teens are depressed at any given time. Research indicates that one in every four adolescents will experience depression during high school with the average being fourteen years. Many have blamed it on the increase of social networking sites within the …show more content…
It is almost impossible to not be sucked into the idea of making one’s life seem more interesting than it really is, and with social media it has become much easier. Individuals should place a higher importance on living a fulfilling life than about creating a flawless online persona. This will lead to a more fulfilling life and happier individuals. Some individuals believe that social networking and documenting our every move online is simple fun and a craze that will pass over time. According to Balpreet Singh, he believes “I don 't see the obsession with selfies as being anything but benign. I think they 're fun. The most natural human impulse is self-preservation, which isn 't too far from self-love and self-admiration.” (Singh, Balpreet) Though Singh has a point, his point directly contradicts research from psychologists. He himself states in his article that “Going through life being preoccupied with what others think is a recipe for disaster. Sharing every moment of our lives, whether it is what we eat, what we wear or what we 're doing, may be exposing a hunger for validation from others. It also means that rather than enjoying the experience, we 're more focused on how it can be shared and what others will have to say about it.” (Singh, Balpreet) This quote is …show more content…
However, we as a society need to learn to moderate our usage of social networking sites. When social networking sites are used as a tool to maintain the human connections we have made, it will ensure we have a healthy balance of human connections and online connections. Having human connections will also help us to ensure we are doing things besides reloading our Instagram feed to check how many people have complimented us. We will in turn lead a more fulfilling life filled with memories and activities that feed our soul instead of our