The Internet has had a greater impact on people today than ever before. It has been a constant source of news, entertainment and education for users around the world for over twenty years. However, the most revolutionary of its technologies, social media, did not achieve mainstream popularity until about a decade ago. As a result of this new development, Facebook, Twitter and similar services are becoming the most visited destinations on the Internet. Although these social networks may seem harmless and fun, some may experience many negative impacts and effects on the user. Some of these harmful effects include sleep deprivation or even depression, although some individuals may have a different view of the social network. Social networks like Facebook have many negative and positive effects on the user and pose a threat to many students today. Social networks allow users to quickly and easily share images, links, ideas and messages with other users; theoretically facilitating social interaction. But do these self-proclaimed social networking tools really encourage healthy human interaction? According to Wallace, recent statistics reveal that Internet users spend an average of 3 hours a day on social media services, (“How Social Media is Changing the World”). These services, through a combination of accessibility, simplicity and intuitive design, promote positive social behaviors by encouraging interaction between friends, family and colleagues; facilitate communication between individuals and promote a deep sense of community. For many, a social networking site can be described as a network of social interactions and personal relationships. Others might say that a social network is a dedicated website or… medium of paper… and it is important for professionals to share this valuable information with each other. Conversely, there is also the possibility that the use of social networks also causes further negative effects. Although with both positive and negative effects, social networks such as Facebook continue to pose a threat to many students today and the use of social networks will live on in the coming years. Works Cited Wallace, David. “How social media is changing the world.” Search Engine Journal. Search Engine Journal, July 26, 2013. Web. November 8, 2013. “Studies Show Effects of Facebook on GPA.” UWIRE lyrics. NP, December 7, 2011. Web. November 12, 2013. "Facebook profiles increase users' self-esteem and influence behavior." Targeted News Service (TNS). Np, 1 June 2013. Web. 12 November. 2013. .