MANLIUS -- A new study confirms something many parents may already know.
According to the American Psychological Association, teenagers who use Facebook and other social network ing sites excessively, are more likely to have an exaggerated sense of their own self importance. Researchers found that teens who used Facebook and other social networking sites multiple times throughout the day were more likely to display narcissistic tendencies. The study also found that the teens showed signs of other psychological disorders like anxiety and depression.
Dr. Paul Cohen, a child psychologist from Manlius, says sites like Facebook can often encourage bad behavior among teens. "Unfortunately, unhealthy teenagers online modeling unhealthy behavior can influence other unhealthy teens, so you get a real exxageration of difficulties," he says.
The American Psychological Association recommends parents talk to their children about the appropriate use of online technology and encourage them to get involved in other activities.
How often do you check up on your child's online activities? Do you see any of these traits in your kids? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts with us.
