Do Social Media Foster Self-Centeredness or Empathy?

The growth of social networking websites is believed to have shifted the nature of our social relationships, as well as how we present and perceive ourselves.

But experts disagree on whether social media, like Facebook, allows us to connect, or become more self-centered and less empathetic towards others.

A new study by Tracy Alloway, Ph.D., of the University of North Florida, investigated the relationship among adult Facebook users, between ages 18 and 50, and found a mixed bag:

 some Facebook features are linked to selfishness and others may encourage empathy.

By RICK NAUERT PHD Senior News Editor