Abstract
Online socialising among adolescents is believed to be associated with levels of social anxiety (Orr et al, 2009; Ellison et al, 2007), satisfaction with life (Valenzuela et al, 2008; Ellison et al, 2007) and, self-esteem (Gonzales & Hancock, 2011; Mehdizadeh, 2010; Kramer & Winter, 2008; Ellison et al, 2007; AOL, 2005). All participants selected (N=100) met the criteria for participating in online socialising and were at the stage of adolescence. In addition to answering demographical questions, participants were rated on Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (La Greca & Lopez 1998), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (Rosenberg 1965) and The Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener, Emmons, Larsen & Griffin, 1985). Results indicated no relationship between social networking, social anxiety, self-esteem and satisfaction with life within an adolescent community. However a significant correlation was found between self-esteem and social anxiety (r=-.390, p < 0.01, 2 tailed). Additional findings also reported significant correlations. The study has highlighted substantial use of online socialising among an adolescent population, as well as implications for future research. Author keywords: Adolescents, social networking, social anxiety, self esteem, satisfaction with life
