2009-11-03-皮尤-Social_Isolation_and_New_Technology_101页_999kb

Social Isolation and New Technology: Impact of Internet and Mobile Phones on Americans' Social Networks

Executive Summary

The report challenges previous concerns about harmful social impacts of new technology, finding that Americans are not as isolated as reported. Internet and mobile phone use are associated with larger and more diverse core discussion networks, countering fears of social withdrawal.

Key Findings

Social Isolation Levels

• Only 6% of adults are truly isolated (have no confidants for important matters).
• Compared to 1985, core discussion networks have shrunk moderately in size but not as dramatically as previously claimed.
• Isolation rates have not notably changed over three decades.

Impact of Internet and Mobile Phones

• Network Size and Diversity: Internet and mobile phone users have larger networks and more diverse connections. Specific activities like instant messaging, sharing photos online, and blogging enhance network diversity.
• Face-to-Face Contact: In-person communication remains dominant, and internet use often complements it with alternatives like text messaging and social media.
• Local Community Participation: Internet use does not reduce face-to-face neighbor interactions or involvement in voluntary groups; some activities may even enhance them. Social networking services showed some substitution for neighborhood involvement.

Other Effects

• The report debunks the "cocooning" hypothesis, showing that internet use encourages engagement in public spaces and offers opportunities for diverse interactions.
• Demographic factors and internet/social media usage positively correlate with network diversity and community engagement.

Conclusion

New technologies like the internet and mobile phones do not cause social isolation; instead, they support and expand social networks when used appropriately.