Social networking 'relieves teen anxieties'

Posted: 23 December 2008

Social networking has provided a popular and useful outlet for the concerns of young people, according to one expert.

A spokeswoman for YoungMinds, a UK-based charity that provides support for children and young people in matters relating to mental health and emotional well-being, said difficulties relating to growing can be helped by such sites.

Sarah Brennan, chief executive of the organisation, said recent research had shown anxieties relating to stress and fears about the future were rife in some teens and as such, many sought a vehicle to express this.

"Social networking sites are very popular with children and young people. They allow young people to express their identity and opinions through video, photos, music and chat," she added.

However, Ms Brennan also noted that there were some risks, such as cyber bullying and the misuse of information, which should also be considered.

Websites such as Facebook, Myspace and Bebo are readily accessible through mobile broadband - with some networks offering free access to them via mobile phones.

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