“Hello, Sweet Pea!” my computer welcomes me as I log on to MySpace.com. A self-proclaimed “place for friends,” MySpace is an online network that has redefined community through its unique blend of friendships and self-expression. On MySpace, teens create a profile describing themselves and their interests. They can then invite others to be their friend” and have their picture added to their profile. Complete with social capital, drama, and rejection, things like making someone’s “Top 8” or being erased from someone’s “friends” list can make or break teens in this complex social world.
Advertisers and those in the music industry have already plugged in to this concept and have begun to create direct, “personal” connections with teens. In many ways, MySpace is every youth worker’s dream. I can get to know my students — through their pictures, hobbies, heroes, and interests, listening to their favorite songs, watching a music video, building relationships, and meeting their friends — all while sipping a bottle of water at my desk!
Like many sites online, MySpace is not completely danger free. Although some teens may assume a totally new identity, I have not seen this on any of my students’ profiles. I think that mainly this site may reveal different sides of our students rather than different personalities — a girl who seems sweet and innocent at church may trash her friends on her blog. Although MySpace prohibits pictures containing nudity, some teens will push the limits. These teens could be at risk for predators sending unsolicited “friend” requests. I have heard of parents voicing concerns about their children posting pictures of themselves online. (On a similar note, a youth worker who struggles with sexual temptation should take caution with this site, as it contains banner ads for companies like Victoria’s Secret.)
When utilizing its positive potential, however, MySpace is, for youth workers, a new point of connection with our teens. Students are looking for community online; once you create a profile and invite teens to be your “friend,” you open a door into their world. While it was once a home visit, phone call, or e-mail that made a connection, now it’s a comment on their profile. You can encourage students, tell them you’re thinking of them, or remind them of Sunday’s mission trip meeting. You can also send bulletins to all of your friends or e-mail individuals. By creating a profile, you let students know who you are and what you’re like. You can be creative with your backgrounds and pictures and list your favorite band or Christian song.
A point of deeper connection can be made through blogging. In this online journal section of their profiles, teens will share everything from the Thai food they ate for dinner to their deepest fears. Recently I read about a shy 16-year-old boy’s struggle with rejection by his friends and the resulting loneliness. By leaving him a comment, I was able to encourage him in his struggle. I also use this section to share devotions based on my life experiences.
A piece of advice: Although it is generally easy to create a profile, setting up your page’s backgrounds and figuring out how to add the music and videos can be challenging, as there are no posted instructions on how to do any of this. You may need the help of one of your students!
If you’ve conquered e-mail and instant messaging, it’s time to take the next step and entangle yourself in the Web of teens’ lives. Log on to MySpace and make some friends!
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Alisa Bliss is youth minister at Duncan United
Methodist Church in Georgetown, South Carolina.
