In the article “I Need My Space!” by Cindy Long argues about how social networking websites pose no real threat to teenage safety. In her article, she gives interesting information about the percentage of American teenagers that use social networking websites. Alongside the data, she talks about how schools blocking access of these websites on campus and educating students about the kinds of information they shouldn’t list on their profiles. Long’s usage of studies, student and teacher interviews demonstrate her vast knowledge about the subject and are a strong usage of the ethos and pathos appeal. Also Long lists some of the preventative measures students use on their profiles to stop sexual predators from finding their location or schools. Here she is also using the ethos appeal showing her knowledge about teenagers’ ability over technology. With in her article she also list some criticism about current privacy settings used on the websites. Her main criticism comes from the age setting used. Many of the sites automatically set profiles to private depending on the age of the user but Long cites many situations where teens simply lie about their ages. Also she lightly criticizes the teaching of internet privacy in school. Long states many students simply don’t listen to their teachers because they already know what is taught in class. Long also addresses some concerns about having harsher age restrictions on websites. Many opponents to Long’s argument cite situations where teens are tricked by predators. Though Long addresses it by stating that it is more of an extreme case of social network abuse. However Long doesn’t address her opponents very well and quickly moves away from the argument.
I agree with Cindy Long that many teenagers do not need to be taught about the dangers of having their entire life on social networking sites like Facebook or MySpace. However I do not agree that teenagers can be fully left alone to use these sites without supervision. Also Long states that teens technological abilities will protect them from harm. However from personal experience that thinking can create a false sense of protection. Full protection of youth from social networking sites is not necessary but some moderating is necessary to insure safe social website usage.
