Study Finds Internet Can Increase Social Bonds

Posted on January 30, 2006

People spend hours on the Internet are often thought of as being unsocial but a new study says that the Internet can provide a "social glue" for people. A BBC article reporting on the PEW study called The Strength of Internet Ties says the study found Americans often use the Internet for help with illness, careers and financial advice.

"When you need help these days, you don't need a bugle to call the cavalry, you need a big buddy list," said John Horrigan, associate director for research at the Pew Internet Project.
The internet is providing Americans with a path to resources, whether it be dealing with family crises or finding a new job.
The reliance and accessibility of the web is creating a new social phenomenon according to sociologist Barry Wellman.
Co-author of the report, he identifies what he terms as the rise of networked individualism - where users of modern technology are less tied to local groups and increasingly part of more geographically scattered networks.
"This creates a new basis for community. Rather than relying on a single community for social support, individuals often actively seek out a variety of appropriate people and resources for different situations," he said.

Social tools like blogging, forums and social networking services have made the Internet a place where it is often easier to find people to talk to do on just about any subject than it is in the real world.