Journal 11, November 8th

http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/11/05/does-technology-reduce-social-isolation/?ref=technology

According to a recent survey by the Pew Internet and American Life Project the average American's social circle today is smaller today than twenty years ago but new technology such as social networking sites and cell phones are not to blame. Based on a telephone survey that polled 2512 adults residing in the continental United States, the Pew discovered that in fact people who use digital technologies on a regular bases are more likely to frequent social sites such as parks and cafes and are participate in local organizations. On the contrary the study indicated that people today are less likely to know their neighbors and interact with them compared to before the use of these technologies. To gather this information Pew asked questions that would usurp previous findings that linked the use of digital technologies to social isolation. Although the Pew did agree with other studies about the average number of intimate friendships dropping from three in 1985 to 2 the Pew found that only six percent of people thought they had no one they could confide in which is not a significant increase. In addition the survey revealed that users of mobile phones tend to have a twelve percent larger circle of friends compared to those who do not use cell phones. Also the Pew was able to confirm that people's social circles in America are becoming less diverse but those who do utilize digital technologies participate in more diverse groups than nonusers. Finally as to be expected people still prefer face-to-face communication when interacting with friends and family members.

It is obvious that new technology has created many different opportunities to communicate with friends and family but it is the user's choice when deciding how to put that technology to good use. Technology such as cell phones and social networking site give people an excellent chance to stay in touch but if they do not use it to do so they are not taking advantage of its full potential. These technologies are only the start of a social process that brings people together. After they get in touch it is up to the individual to go out and interact with the rest of the world.

Reference:
http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2009/18--Social-Isolation-and-New-Technology.aspx