How useful is Facebook?

Facebook users spend an average of 15 hours per month on social networks. Despite the fact that we are actively warned against such intensive use of Facebook, there are a number of studies that detail the potential harm from it. But the merits of this site also do not remain without the attention of scientists. Therefore, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with what Facebook can be useful for you.

Improves heart rate

According to researchers at the University of Massachusetts, the time you spend on "Facebook" helps you relax, slows down your heart rate and reduces stress levels.

In a study published earlier this year, scientists observed 30 students and found that when they spend time in social networks, their level of stress and tension decreases. In the study, students were tested in three situations. They looked at panoramic landscapes, performed complex mathematical exercises and used Facebook. The first situation was the most relaxing for all students, and the second was the most stressful. But the time spent on Facebook, was for them the most attractive.

These data support the hypothesis that Facebook, in the same way as other social networks, correlates with the positive mental and physical experience of users.

Can help you get a job

A number of enterprises are already using Facebook to exclude employees that are unsuitable for some reason during their employment. Therefore it is quite possible that employers will soon use it to understand who is the best candidate.

Researchers at the University of Northern Illinois are confident that the candidate's Facebook page will have a much greater impact on the employer than the person's personality or his IQ level. Researchers asked the appraisers to draw their conclusions about the possible work of applicants, considering both their account in Facebook and personal tests.

Appraisers looked at the design of the subject's page, the number of his friends, in the photo. This was necessary in order to understand how the candidate for work is socially active. Their tastes in books and music were also appreciated. After five minutes of viewing the page of the candidate, appraisers were able to answer questions about them, and in as much detail as one might expect from close friends.

When the researchers asked employers to evaluate the same employees six months later, it turned out that their opinion, based on the impression of the page on Facebook, was more accurate than the opinion based solely on personality tests.

Increases self-esteem

According to the research, the time spent on "Facebook" allows people to feel better. The study, conducted by scientists at Cornell University, was the first to show the psychological benefits of using social networks. It turns out that people can increase their self-esteem by simply looking at their Facebook page. According to researchers, the whole point is that for their profile in social networks people choose the best photos. In addition, positive inscriptions, wishes from friends on the wall also affect the increase in self-esteem.

Unlike the mirror, which reminds us what we really are, and can have a negative impact on self-esteem, if this image does not fit our ideal, Facebook only shows a positive version of the person. This does not mean that this version is deceptive, but there is nothing negative about it.

Raises stock prices

"FaceBook" is good not only for your physical or psychological health. It can be useful for your investments. Researchers from the University of Pace found that the more popular your company on Facebook, the more expensive its stock. The study showed that there is a regularity between the popularity of the company and the economic indicator of the brand. If everyone thinks about your brand and discusses it, it can mean something in terms of stock quotes or corporate efficiency.

Increases productivity

Many can say that social networks only distract employees from work. Nevertheless, they can really help. Scientists have found that 10 minutes on Facebook as a break makes employees more happy and productive.

Researchers divided the workers into three groups. One of them was not allowed to take a break, the second could rest for a while, but do not use the Internet and social networks. The third group was allowed to use "Facebook" during the break. The group that used Facebook, as a result, was 16% more productive than the one that just rested, and 40% more effective than the one that the break was completely banned.

Brief and unobtrusive breaks, for example, a few minutes on the Internet, allow the brain to rest more quickly, which leads to better concentration throughout the working day and, as a result, higher productivity.

Helps to get education

Facebook can help students get the higher education they have been looking for. Researchers have found that students who are active on Facebook are less likely to drop out of school than those who do not use the social network.

The study involved more than 400 students of the first and second year of college. Most of the students who switched to the second year of study were much more active on Facebook than those who did not.

The study also showed that students who actively use Facebook are more enthusiastic about the university environment.

Improves your personal life

The study shows that 60% of single people after a personal meeting begin to actively communicate with this person on Facebook. 25% of people with the help of "Facebook" are tying new love relationships. In addition, the social network continues to be used in the future, in the process of acquaintance and courtship. 79% of users send messages to their halves via Facebook throughout the day. And 60% leave on the wall of their halves romantic messages.

If the relationship ends, more than half of the respondents immediately update their status, indicate that they are lonely, which facilitates further acquaintances.