We all know about the great benefits social networking brings to our lives like reconnecting with old friends and acquaintances, staying in touch long-distance, and meeting new people with similar interests online. Also, did you know that for some people it can also bolster their self-confidence?

But with all these benefits there are sure to be some drawbacks. This next infographic from Schools.com offers a different take on social networking and asks the question, “Is social media making us socially awkward?“.

Since we spend so much time networking online, you really have to ask yourself if it’s filling a need or just merely occupying our time. A Hong Kong study found that face to face friendships offer more interdependence, more depth of understanding, more breadth of understanding, and something else which can seldom be replaced by an online relationship. It’s commitment.

That’s right, if you get rubbed the wrong way by something someone says or does on Facebook, it’s real easy to just unfriend them and forget about it. Real life is a little different. It’s something to consider.

Take a look at what they came up with: