by Hanna M. Jagow

Created on: February 08, 2010   Last Updated: February 18, 2010

Digital age network relationships depend mostly on text, which has significant limitations.  Conventional communication is 70 to 90 percent non-verbal.   When actually talking, we read expressions, body "language,"  tone and pitch of the voice, complexion changes, and timing.  Words in print have to stand alone and can easily be misinterpreted.  "i'm hot" could mean romance or the weather is very warm.

The following questions present possible sticky situations. 

1.  My mom sent me a Facebook friend request.  What should I do?

If you grew up in a family who felt no need to replace the bathroom door after somebody broke it down, you may want to skirt the issue. Give her a firm no and then block her!  If you like your mom, set up ground rules in a phone call. 

2.  I accepted my mother's friend request on Facebook, but now she writes embarrassing messages on my wall.  Is it OK to de-friend her?

Absolutely.  If you were a typical teenager, your mom should be used to being banished from your social circle (unless she is buying you a wedding dress, a car or a new bedroom set).

3.  My friend posted pictures online from our spring break trip to Cabo that are not suitable for public consumption.  What should I do?

First, check the definition of "friend" in the dictionary.  Do whatever you can to get the pictures deleted. 

4.  My boss found compromising photos and information about me onling that she says reflect poorly on the organization.  I am worried about losing my job.  What can I do?

Take the office gossip to lunch and gather counter-intelligence.  Or ask your boss for the exact site so that you can have the info deleted or discover that you have an exact double out there.  Again, promise yourself to choose friends more wisely.

5.  My friends told me about some websites that reward people with coupons from businesses if I check in at stores.  It sounds fun, but is it safe to be disclosing my location?

The simple answer is probably no.  Check your state's attorney general's office for known frauds, and the Better Business Bureau .   Most burglars would still rather visit while you are not home, so why would you want friends of friends of friends to know you are out?

We are all sailing uncharted seas out there in the digital ocean and it is important to remember that "B mi valentine" could mean anything from a one-night's moorage to a round-the-world voyage.

Being able to keep in touch in the virtual living room of social networking can be both fun and rewarding, giving many a chance to know each other better.  However, be careful what u rite;  it's all in the interpretation.

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