New Study - Social networking sites, web-based activities Positive Teen Development

2008-11-22 06:29:45 (GMT) (WiredPRNews.com - Health & Fitness, News)

According to a new study, social networking sites, online gaming, and other web-based activities have a positive influence on teen development. As reported by News Factor Network, the study shows contradictory evidence of the opinions some parents hold that such activities are non-productive.

Dallas, Texas (WiredPRNews.com) — The research was presented at an American Anthropological Association meeting on Thursday. The study was conducted over the course of three years, and involved 5,000 hours of observation of the online habits of teenagers. It is stated to be a component of a $50 million research initiative for understanding the correlation between digital media and teenage learning and socialization.

Within the 58-page report, the News Factor Network article points out several factors that seemed to stand out to researchers. These include the two major motivators for online interaction being friendship and interest. Other findings include the varying perspectives of adults and teenagers on the value of the Internet and online engagement, and evidence of teenagers limiting their Internet opportunities by not taking the time to use all available information in regards to learning new things.

Photo credit: David Shankbone