Why do people go on networks that make them dumber?

I always wonder why people go on social networks that are proven to negatively impact their daily lives. A recent study reported in most major newspapers, notes that active facebook users are on average a full GPA point lower then their non-facebook using counterparts. That 1 point GPA difference is huge.

Most grad schools and many employers seriously consider GPA when interviewing prospective candidates, particularly in a crowded job market like this one Unless the person has George Bush like connections, they will be at a huge disadvantage in a bad economy.

At the end of the day what does the active facebook user (or myspace, hi5, whatever) have to show for their loyalty? Business connections? hardly. Finding the next big job? yeah right. Improving their chances of landing a dream job or getting accepted to a great school? please.

I have yet to read about someone whose life improved by social networks that expose the complete blow by blow details of their users for anyone doing a google search to see. However I have read articles every single day about how some professor, or politician and the average Joe getting fired or denied promotions, because of some stupid picture, comment or message posted by themselves-or others on social networks like facebook, myspace, etc. When a social network does not care about your privacy, anything you or someone else does becomes your responsibility-and liability.

My advice is to use a social network that benefits rather then hinders your life now and in the future...Your life and future is worth more then what many social networks are offering up now. There is hope, my fellow bloggers-stay tuned for more-myabuy style!

-A myabuyer