As the name suggests, these focus on building online social networks for communities of people who share interests and activities. Often social networking websites contain directories of some categories (such as classmates), means to connect with friends (usually with self-description pages), and recommender systems (allowing users to search for others with similar interests). Generally, social networking websites such as MySpace, Facebook and Bebo, allow users to create a profile for themselves. Users can upload a photo and become “friends” with other users. In most cases, both users must confirm that they are friends before they are linked. Some social networking sites also have a “favourites” feature that does not need approval from the other user that displays a list of ‘top friends’ on the user’s profile page. Social networks usually have privacy controls that allow the user to choose who can view their profile or contact them. Additionally, users can create or join groups around common interests or affiliations, upload videos, and hold discussions in forums.
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.