Adolescence and the Internet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Adolescence and the Internet - Essay Example This use of the Internet has created interest in researchers. Studies on the impact of the Internet on the welfare and development of adolescents have resulted. The focus of these studies has been on the manner of use by the adolescents and the potential risk of exposure to anonymous communication, from within or outside the adolescent group. The findings of these studies have raised concerns over the negative impact of the use of the Internet. This article by Elisheva F. Gross attempts to negate these concerns. It focuses on the positive aspects of the adolescent use of the Internet. Additional topics explored are motives for use of the Internet, actual online behavior and strategies for the prevention of online dating. The article by Elisheva outlines the three propositions that were the result of earlier studies. These are that gender predicts usage; the Internet may lead to social isolation and depression and the tendency to use anonymous identities by adolescents. She attempts a comparison of these propositions with the findings of her research into the online behavior of adolescents. The main thrust of the argument of Elisheva against these propositions is that they are based on particular empirical studies or case-based questions. Such methodologies lead to biased and inaccurate research findings. In support of her contention, she uses more focused and specific research. She further argues that the spread of the Internet provides enhanced scope for communication. Evidence from her research leads Elisheva to conclude that there is no corroboration of the earlier findings. Thus her research causes her to refute the earlier findings and instead suggests that there is a similarity in use of the Internet irrespective of gender.