“Potential Facebook Addiction.” Addiction Info. 11 October 11, 2009. http://www.addictioninfo.org/articles/2171/1/Potential-Facebook-addiction/Page1.html.
SUMMARY
This article summarizes the uses of Facebook and explains the inappropriate addictions that happen through these social networks. Psychologists believe that these are unhealthy addictions to the media. Many people continue to think of Facebook while offline and use Facebook to “escape” their problems and homework, some even stay on Facebook for long period of time (Facebook stalking?) psychologists believe that notifications, messages, and invites are “rewarding you with an unpredictable high,” one that is much like gambling. Another problem is that students are losing assignment time so they can Facebook. You may just have to diagnose your addiction and change your habits, but you must recognize the mass of time wasted. Rob Bedi a psychologist and professor at the University of Victoria thinks that students should record their activity on Facebook and limit the time they spend making Facebook like a chore by recording it. Some universities have addiction counseling that you can attend to get over this addiction. Ironically there are around 155 Facebook Addicts Anonymous groups on Facebook itself.
RESPONSE
Facebook has become a way to reconnect with old classmates, invite friends to parties, play games, send virtual gifts, and inform the general public about your life by updating your status. Facebook has even become a way to share and enjoy pictures. Facebook seems innocent enough until you relate it to gambling, which is quite addicting (from what I’ve heard – I’m still not old enough for this addiction – thanks for the limitations?) It’s ridiculous that students will get this addicted to Facebook. The article suggests that students have too much time to waste, but I believe that students resort to Facebook, because it’s a formed habit. I too have wasted time on Facebook, trying to download photos I end up wasting a lot of time reading the news feed; I am fascinated at the multiple updates from just one Facebook user and the personal information they disclose. This really is a mass media source; I am invited to parties and to join groups with over five thousand people already attending. I honestly don’t even know that many people. Somebody said that Facebook is a method of “academic homicide,” and I concur. We have so many other responsibilities to attend to, that we shouldn’t be spending large amount of time on this social network. I think it’s ridiculous that there are Facebook Addicts groups on Facebook. I hope that students will enjoy this site without becoming addicted.
