Facing Adversity

Creepy, annoying and pointless. These are a few of the words used to describe Facebook. But is the Web site, accessible and stalker friendly as it might be, really the great social stitch in our side causing us to double over in friendship exhaustion? \nThe sheer popularity of the site should be a key indicator that it is at least of some social worth. The site receives almost 4 billion page hits per day. Many of those are undoubtedly college students that are simply looking to see if the photos from their drunken weekends have been posted. But it is becoming more evident with every passing day (and news report) that Facebook is more than just a college social sphere concentrated on the drunken and disorderly. Rather, it is becoming the mode by which students and other members of communities, both academic and otherwise, are able to gain much needed support from their peers.\nBeing alone in a given situation, especially one that is extremely stressful, is detrimental to the physical health of the individual. Characteristics in relationships that support good health are "being close and connected, being able to solve problems and make decisions as a team, being able to cope with a variety of situations together and being able to talk honestly and openly," according to a report from McMaster University. These characteristics bear a strong resemblance to the opportunities and connections that Facebook allows.\nFor example, I am currently a member of a Facebook group entitled "I Miss Josh Brown." Josh Brown was a member of my graduating class. He died on Aug. 26, 2006. Facebook has provided a wonderful way for those who knew him to share their memories and grieve collectively. Having the collective support of so many people (the group has 98 members) that have become disjointed since graduation has helped us cope. Also, the site provides a means by which groups are taking action. The Students' Smokefree Coalition at Indiana University is attempting to get the administration to ban smoking on campus. The Facebook group "PLEASE ban smoking on IU's campus" has been created in order to support the stance. The event "Keep the Music Alive" was created in order to protest the possible selling of Verizon Wireless Music Center. These are indicators that Facebook is doing a great social service in providing a forum for open debate and communication.\nIt may be a stretch to say that without Facebook, many users would fall into a disease-ridden stupor because they lack the support of other users. But for all the complaints about the site, it seems that it (and other sites like it) is one of the most innovative creations in regard to important social communication that has been thus far conceived in the Internet realm. I'm not saying that the Web site (like any creation) doesn't have its pitfalls. But it is in fact one of the most important factors affecting college life today.