Junior Amanda Mcfee turns on her home computer. One of the first things she does online is to check her FaceBook page. Mcfee, like other students, says when it comes to Facebook she’s an addict.

Teens feel that there are faster and easier ways of keeping in touch with one another on the web. The tools used to communicate have changed and teens are admitting that most of their time online is spent on social networking sites like FaceBook and MySpace.

Mcfee says she spends most of her free time online and the site she’s most actively on is Facebook, an online social networking site where students can find friends, chat and upload photos.

“I would call myself a Facebook addict because I’m on it all the time,” said Mcfee. “My favorite thing about Facebook would have to be the games, like Farmville.”

Facebook features thousands of games and applications to keep users entertained. Students have numerous reasons as to why they find Facebook appealing.

“The status updates are fun. I like reading what other people have to say,” said sophomore Courtney Slaughter. “Facebook also makes it easier to keep in touch with friends.”

There are lots of social networking web sites most of them feature music bands, news feeds and celebrity gossip. Sites on the web like MySpace are brightly colored and feature teen idols, one of many reasons why these sites appeal most to teens.

“Teens like me enjoy broadcasting their opinions and views, Facebook status updates and groups allow me to do that,” said senior Kolby Smith. “I always thought that was what made FaceBook more appealing than other social sites.”

Online sites often change their look and update their features. MySpace now features instant messaging and status updates. Its home page changes weekly, and it also features a new singer/song writer each week.

“Social networking sites are just another part of pop culture,” said senior Montieray Jackson. “The theme of websites like MySpace change just like trends and fads do.”

FaceBook and MySpace constantly update their privacy policy and security features. Users have many options to choose from in regards to their online privacy. Users can choose to set their photos and profile visible to only their friends.

“I enjoy using FaceBook but I also take precautions like not using my full name online,” said senior Keyon Jones. “I think students should always remember to protect themselves from things like identity theft while online. It’s very important to have online safety.”