Social Networking

Dictionary.com defines networking as a supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest.  So social networking sites give people the forum to communicate.  Most social networking sites aim to offer a positive service, but if you aren't careful you could see how the Fishbowl Effect comes into play.

What's the Fishbowl Effect, you ask.  Well, if you remember looking at a goldfish in a round fishbowl, you can remember that from different angels, the fish looks different.  Same thing happens with what you put online.  Whether it is a written post or a picture that you've put online, whoever is observing can only interpret what they see.  If the story isn't completely told or the details of what was occurring when the picture was taken, people are left to assume.

Let's look at Facebook as an example.  More than 800 million people use Facebook.  Because it is a popular place for people to display themselves, employers and colleges often use it to screen people before an interview.  Often times when people are careless about what they post on Facebook so they are not given a chance to discuss with a university or potential employer who they really are.  Once something is on the internet, it stays in cyberspace forever.  That is why it is SO important to think before you post.  

Important things to remember:

• Make your password strong.  Example: SnowedN47.  Do not share with anyone (but your parents if they ask for it).
• Keep personal information like your birthday, phone number, email, home address, etc. private.  If your friends really need that information, you can give it to them personally.  You don't want to make yourself vulnerable to weirdos.
• Careful with the photos you AND your friends post!  Do not upload pictures or videos  that you wouldn’t want to share with  your grandparents, teachers, or future bosses. Once you post something online it’s there forever. A picture can be sent to thousands of people in minutes.  Think about college acceptance and job opportunities.  Would someone hire you based on the pictures you post?
• Think before you write.  If you wouldn’t say it to them in person then you shouldn’t say it online.  Whatever you write can come back to you (in seconds or in years).  This is how cyber-bullying usually starts.

Frequently asked questions:

A guy that rides my bus asked me to be friends with him on Facebook.  I know his name, but I've never hung out with him before.  Should I accept?

     I would so no.  If you don't KNOW him, why does he need to see so much information about you?

This girl on Facebook has the same name as me!  She asked be to be her friend.  Should I accept?

     NO.  You have NO idea who this person is.  They could easily be a weirdo.

Someone I'm friends with on Facebook has posted a picture of me that I don't like.  What do I do?

     First, you can untag yourself.  Problem won't be resolved though.  So you'll want to kindly ask your friend to remove it.  If they refuse, you can ask Facebook to remove it stating it is a harassing photo of you.  Remember, you can do this whenever you see something obscene (sex, drugs, violence...).

One of my friends is being bullied on Facebook.  What can I do?

     Tell a one of your administrators.  They can help keep you anonymous while addressing the issue.  You can try to nicely explain to the person that what they have posted is hurtful if you are good friends with them.  Remember, if you don't do anything when you see someone being bullied, you are just as guilty.

That looks cool!  Should I click on it?

     Probably not!  Often scams are sent out through social networking sites.  These scams can collect your information and hack your account.  This is unneeded stress so just avoid trying to figure out who is looking at your wall.

This is making me feel really bad.  Should I delete my Facebook account?

    Up to you.  If you're addicted or see added drama, stress, and anxiety to your life, I'll say yes.  If you know how to use social networking properly, you should be fine.

Why does Mrs. Triplett have a teacher friendly account?

     I want to continue to support my students even after they leave middle school.  I want them to know that I am here for them in whatever way they need me.  Since most everyone has Facebook and checks it more regularly than their email, I figure that it is a good way to stay in touch.

Last piece of advice: check your privacy on Facebook.  Only friends should be able to see your wall, info, and pictures.  This will avoid drama.  Let's leave the drama for the TV!