The "MySpace Phenomenon"

Across the country news reporters have published a deluge of articles concerning a web site called MySpace. Why have so many articles been written in concerning this one web site? What is MySpace? What are the concerns? And how can educators help to address the concerns?.

MySpace is an example of a new online phenomenon, which is more appropriately called "online social networking." In online social networking environments, users register and establish a profile that provides personal information and photos. Then the user makes connections or links with other users who share interests or connections. Users engage in a variety of forms of communication and information sharing, which can include personal Web pages, blogs, and discussion groups.

MySpace is currently the most popular of several dozen online social networking communities. There are problems associated with MySpace, but MySpace itself is not the problem. In fact, MySpace has an excellent user agreement that seeks to prohibit inappropriate behavior, provides information on Internet safety and responsible use and, by all reports, is responsive in seeking to address individual concerns, as well as overall concerns. The reported concerns are common to all social networking environments, not just MySpace. A list of other online social networking communities is on Wikipedia under "List of Social Networking Websites."

Social sites are attractive environments for teens, as well as adults. Such sites present opportunities for self-expression and friendship building. Youth "playtime" in such environments is building skills that will be a foundation for career success in the 21 st century. Many teens are safely and responsibly engaged in such communities.