Everyone likes convenience. Without it, we would not have developed much of the technology we currently take for granted. The rise of convenient access to the Internet has radically affected our lives. Although this convenience has its advantages, this technology has several negative effects on our social lives. Bullying is still a problem that most teenagers have encountered at one time or another. Although it was once a preventable problem, the rise of the Internet has led to cyberbullying. This is a method of bullying someone over the Internet or through instant messaging. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying cannot be avoided. It turns out that bullies have a lot more “confidence” behind a bright screen. Cyberbullying has led to many teenage suicides. Not only does the bully have to deal with the guilt that comes with it, but they are also likely to face legal action. Some states have included electronic forms of communication in their harassment and stalking laws. They group cyberbullying into groups including cyberstalking and cyberstalking. Cyberbullying involves using electronic devices to engage in threatening or malicious behavior. Crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies. Cyberbullying is different from cyberstalking in that it may not pose a credible threat. Like what was previously mentioned, cyberbullying has led to an increase in teenage suicide. This may be because the bully cannot see how the other person is being affected. The victim is less likely to be around other people when being bullied and often withdraws into themselves instead of consulting another person. If the situation leads to suicide, not only the victim is affected, but almost everyone that person has ever known. The bully must deal with the guilt. Family members and ...... middle of paper ...... with introverted tendencies and social awkwardness. Trusting your online friends more than your real friends is a sign that your real-life relationships are weak at best and non-existent at worst. Matchmaking sites are an undeniably popular way to find a partner. But how effective are they? Can their matchmaking “algorithms” find someone who is a perfect match? Studies have shown that marriages originating from a matchmaking site are slightly more successful than those that start offline. Contrary to this, many counselors believe that the ease of starting a new relationship online can lead to divorce or cheating. Many of the effects of the Internet have been negative on our social lives, although it also has some benefits. The Internet is a powerful tool, but each tool has advantages and disadvantages. Maybe one day the Internet will bring us closer than before.