Writing Question:
In today’s society, the use of social media is getting increasing unavoidable.

* Write a short article for your English teacher.
* Explain some of the benefits and harms social media brings to Hong Kong society.
* Include a title for your article.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Networking

Whether you are a social network addict, a novice dabbler, or you are thinking about trying online networking, you probably have some questions about the advantages and disadvantages of social networking. For example, can it really increase one's productivity or does it just waste valuable time? How safe is it? Before you invest too heavily in online social communities, be sure to do your due diligence so you are aware of the risk versus the reward. Here's what you need to know to help you make an informed decision.

Two Advantages of Social Networking

1. Worldwide Connectivity

No matter if you are searching for that former college roommate, your first grade teacher, or an international friend, there is no easier or faster way to make a connection than via the social network. Although Facebook, Twitter, Wechat and QQ are probably the most well-known social networking communities, there are new websites popping up regularly that are dedicated to allowing people to connect and to interact via the Internet. Through such sites, individuals make new friends or business connections or extend their personal base by connecting and interacting with friends of friends and so forth. These connections can help one with a variety of things such as finding romance, seeking a new job, receiving support from like-minded individuals.

2. Commonality of Interest

When you opt to participate in a social network community, you can pick and choose those individuals whose likes and dislikes are similar to yours and build your network around those commonalities. You can meet with your friends anytime you have an Internet connection and whenever you find them online.
Two Disadvantages of Online Social Communities

1. Face to Face Connections are Endangered

A huge advantage of these social communities has a reverse side effect that is also a big disadvantage of social networking: they reduce or eliminate face-to-face socialization. Teens are at higher risk because those years are when they are learning to interact with others or build and maintain relationships. A report from the National School Boards Association shows that of the children in these age groups that use a social network, 41 percent spend their time posting messages. They are not spending this time in face-to-face interactions with their peers or others nor are they developing the necessary social skills for future success.

2. Cyberbullying and Crimes Against Children

Use of social networks can expose individuals to harassment or inappropriate contact from others. Unless parents are diligent to filter the Internet content to which their families are exposed, children could be exposed to pornography or other inappropriate content.

Take responsibility for your own safety and integrity and never join something just because it is trendy or all your friends are doing it. In evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of social networking, it's best to stand on the side of caution and information. After all, the lack of both can have a devastating effect.

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