the internet and close relationships

With the development of new technology, such as email, webcams, and social networking websites such as Facebook, many people have abandoned the use of regular face to face conversations. While the internet can help people who are shy and reserved in social situations express themselves behind a computer screen more openly, it can also lead to deception and confusion. The meaning behind what someone is saying can be misinterpeted very easily. Things like sarcasm and jokes can be missed by those participating in the conversation due to the lack of social cues like facial expressions and the tone of voice that are found in face to face conversation. This can lead to disagreements and false assumptions. The internet can also be used in a negative way to decieve people about who you really are. While sometimes this is purely for more superficial reasons, like exagerating your level of attractiveness or intelligence, sometimes it can be dangerous. Many people have naively trusted strangers online pretending to be someone else. And the ability to hide under the mask of anonymousness can lead to bullying. Websites like Formspring.me give users the ability to anonymously say whatever they desire to the creator of the page. Many incidents have arisen recently because of cyberbullying, and in worst case scenarios, it can sometimes lead to the victim harming themselves. While the internet is an amazing invention, it should be used with caution. And nothing should replace the intimacy of a face to face conversation.