KATV Channel 7 - The Spirit of Arkansas: Sad Faces

The American Academy of Pediatrics says the impact of Facebook is so strong for teenagers, it can trigger something called "Facebook Depression".  The Academy just issued a clinical report on the impact of social media, like Facebook.  They've also released some guidelines for parents to help their kids navigate today's technology.  The report urges parents to work on their "participation gap," so that they can understand this new technology and relate kids and their online challenges... especially when it comes to social and emotional development.  Kids say the Facebook activity seems real, but they know it is not real life.  On Facebook, anybody can look happy and popular.  It is a world where adoration and competition reign supreme.  Experts say its those shallow connections that can fuel a rampant lack of compassion and empathy.  Some doctors say the internet gives kids an inflated view of themselves.  The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages families to talk about specific issues like cyberbullying, sexting and online time-management.  They also say families need to develop an online use plan that emphasized citizenship, healthy behavior and real friendship.