Social Networking

Okay, don't laugh but I am not on Facebook or any other social networking sites. I know, I am just about the only person not on Facebook. Even my grandma has an account, and she is on it fairly often! So anyway, I can say that I think most people on social networking sites put in a decent amount of time creating their facework. This is the way they establish and maintain the image of themselves they would like to reflect to others. I think the way you present yourself all depends on how you want others to perceive you. Basically, you have the ability to "create" yourself. You have the ability to pick and choose what people see/read about you. Since I don't have an account I can't say I have posted something that I later regretted, but I do know people who have. The thing to remember is once it has been put out there it can't be retracted. Hurtful things posted on social sites can be devastating to those that are targeted. It makes me think of the kids that get into fights over what was posted. Or kids committing suicide because someone was bullying them or posted something horrible about them. I think social networking can be a great tool, but I think it can also have great downfalls. Preventive facework could help when using these sites. Ultimately, I think you should always be mindful of what and how much information you post about yourself and others.