Instant messaging (IM) is a form of real-time communication between two or more people based on typed text (although some applications support communicating through web cams and/or voice over internet). Earlier forms of IM often involved users logging on to web based chat rooms and the use of IRC (Internet Relay Chat) software. Although some young people still use these, the use of IM software such as MSN Messenger appears to be most popular. MSN Messenger requires users to register an account (in which they give themselves an alias or ‘handle’) as well as the installation of free software. Most IM applications allow the user to set an online status or away message so peers are notified when the user is available, busy, or away from the computer. Instant messages are typically logged in a local message history, thus allowing conversations to be saved for later reference. Additionally, users can often adjust privacy settings and ‘block’ other users from being able to message them.
Published in Chapter:
Bridging the Digital Divide in Australia: The Potential Implications for the Mental Health of Young People Experiencing Marginalisation
Jane Burns (University of Melbourne, Australia), Michelle Blanchard (University of Melbourne, Australia), and Atari Metcalf (Inspire Foundation, Australia)
Copyright: © 2010
|Pages: 22
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-60566-699-0.ch006
Abstract
The rapid uptake of technology offers potentially innovative approaches to promoting mental health amongst young people, addressing a significant public health challenge. The advent of Web 2.0 has seen a shift from text heavy content to the development of communities that foster connectivity. This area of research, its potential to engage young people at risk of isolation, and the mental health benefits it may have, has received little attention. This chapter considers evidence regarding technology’s role in mental health promotion, particularly for marginalized young people. Results are presented from an Australian study, “Bridging the Digital Divide,” which investigated technology access and utilization by young people experiencing marginalization. Finally, Australian policy regarding the digital divide and Internet safety is reviewed. The authors conclude that policy responses should move beyond just access and safety and explore innovative ways of ensuring safe and supportive online communities accessible for all young people.