Yet another way to fear Web 2.0: maybe social networking services rot our romantic relationships. (full study, pdf).
those who spent time on social networking sites such as Facebook may be exposed to information about their partners that makes them jealous, leading them to spend more time involved in online surveillance and to uncover even more jealousy-provoking information.
Excellent title: "More Information than You Ever Wanted: Does Facebook
Bring Out the Green-Eyed Monster of Jealousy?"
Bonus points: the process can be addictive! The paper
describes a vicious cycle in which Facebook usage and feelings of jealousy become intertwined and have a negative influence on behavior and relationships. Some participants in the study described their increasing use of Facebook as "addictive." The authors recommend further research to explore this feedback loop
So we see several fearsome internet memes combine: addiction, social subversion, and a hint at undermining the family. Perverse sexuality isn't evoked, but comes close.
(thanks to Ian Campbell)
Comments