MySpace, a Subliminal Pool for Drama?

MySpace, like Friendster, is an online community for people to gather and interact with one another. It’s like high school all over again. Except here, you’re faced with a virtual playground where people use their default picture as a marketing tool and the piece being advertised, THEMSELVES.

Even if you’re single or in a relationship, you can’t help but browse other people’s profiles. Face it, a cool picture will draw you in, especially if that individual is somewhat attractive. People see your profile, if they think you’re worth bothering, they request to add you as a friend. Myspace gives you the freedom of voyeurism at the click of a mouse.

So, what consists of a profile? A clever little quote to the right of your “best” looking picture, a background hindering your “About Me” section where you are forced to summarize who you are in a few paragraphs. Let’s not forget the “Who I’d Like to Meet” section, basically a modern version of a “Want Ad.” You also have your interests where you can declare which movies, music, general hobbies you enjoy. People can view who your friends are as well and read comments you’ve received.

For those in a relationship, Myspace can act as a type of breeding ground for jealousy and drama. People can leave you comments for the whole world to see. Messages can be sent back and forth. You even have the option of covering your tracks such as trashing your messages or deleting comments, but who has the time or the effort?

Recently, the development of the “Top 8,” has left people placing their best friends on this newfound pedestal for all of MySpace to see. Some individuals have even ranked their friends chronologically from most important to least.

Now, you have your friends getting emotional about how you’ve left them out of your Top 8, you have individuals getting annoyed about who leaves you comments and messages. You are even faced with running into ex-girlfriends and ex-boyfriends on this thing.

Without a doubt, MySpace makes it easier to meet new people, reunite with old friends, family and strangers, some of which are really cool and some who are just plain horny, old or desperate.