by Carol Henrichs

Created on: July 06, 2009   Last Updated: September 01, 2009

Social networking sites like Facebook have become so popular that they have begun to mirror many other traditional aspects of society.

FACEBOOK USERS

Facebook use is mainstream. It is becoming the 'norm,' with regular users now including Oprah Winfrey and other celebrities and political figures. Even the White House has a Facebook page.

Professional athletes use Facebook to connect pages fans. Singers, artists, and musical groups have Facebook pages, using them as advertisement for their latest creative works. They even include snippets of music.

While Facebook began as a networking tool for college students, users now come from all age levels and life experiences.

FACEBOOK ADDICTION DISORDER

While the majority of the hundreds of millions of people use Facebook to enhance their lives in part-time activity, others have been lured by the round-the-clock connectivity. In some cases, they have succumbed to it. A new psychological condition has come to be known as Facebook Addiction Disorder.

The psychologically needy, whose weakness often leads to drinking, taking drugs, or joining a cult, have now turned to compulsive use of Facebook, allowing their computer connectivity to take over more and more of their lives. Like many addictions, this one may begin innocently enough.

Facebook users share thoughts, ideas, and pictures with friends and family members; to re-connect with former high school classmates, former work mates for whom they have lost touch; or as simply a way to unwind with one of the many Facebook applications that include games, puzzles, and quizzes. This extra-curricular use is generally harmless and fun.

But there are others who have allowed Facebook to replace parts of their real lives. Connectivity goes on for the better part of a day. Facebook use, which includes connecting with total strangers in some cases, replaces real friendships and healthy interactions with others.

"The Internet is unlike anything we've seen before. It's a socially connecting device that's socially isolating at the same time," said Dr. David Greenfield, founder of the Center for Internet Studies.

Facebook itself recognizes the potential for harm. Nestled among other causes, such as Breast Cancer Awareness, Hugs are Better than Drugs, and Help Stop Drunk Driving, there is a page dedicated to the cause of Facebook Addiction Disorder. It was apparently posted by the Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. The cause has 96,196

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