Most people need social interaction in order to thrive as human beings. This can be debatable for some, but several theories and philosophies that have evolved over time drive this point home. We need to feel loved, wanted and accepted by someone or a group of people to feel a portion of our self-worth. So, we rely on others for certain satisfactions - whether they are physical or mental – and always find a way to involve ourselves with other people. If we didn’t, than friends, marriage, organizations, businesses and groups would not exist. And neither would e-communities, chat rooms or instant messaging.

E-communities have been around for some time, and are an ever growing trend. And, they can be very beneficial for people. They allow us to keep up with our family and friends, and also give us an outlet to share our artistic side by posting art, writings or just our day to day thoughts. They are a great way to express ourselves and gain attention on different levels; but, how do you gage if your e-community, chat room and IM behavior is healthy, or when it goes too far?

The benefits of e-communities, chat rooms and IM’s.

These sources of communication are a great way to do a number of things, and can be a healthy outlet for you in the following conditions:

• Keeping in touch with friends and family. Whether your friends and family live in the same town or 3,000 miles away, it is always great to keep in touch with them. And doing this in the forum of e-communities like Myspace and Friendster, chat rooms and IMs is great. E-communities allows you to see new pictures that don’t clog your e-mail box, read blogs about what is going on in their lives and respond or comment on each thing they wish to share with you. Chat rooms and IM technology lets you chat real time, just like a phone conversation, but without the large phone bill. All three can save time, money and keep you up to date with what is going on at your convenience.

• Promoting your business or service. E-community Web space allows you to promote your business or service to thousands of people who are also e-community members. Not only can you pick up some greatly needed business, but you can make friends, who will in turn spread the word about what you can provide. All you have to do is update your space consistently and provide great service, and the rest speaks for itself.

• Getting feedback. E-communities and chat rooms are a great way to get feedback on any venture you may want critiqued. This is especially helpful if you are a writer, artist, in advertising or a product or service-related business. Many individuals rely on this form of communication in order to keep their project moving forward or make some much needed changes along the way.

• Meeting new friends. Yes, e-communities and chat rooms are also great ways to meet new friends with similar backgrounds and interests. More and more people are making love connections, best friends and business partners online. While there are precautions (which will be discussed later), this can be a legitimate way for you to find others that you have a lot in common with.