Washington - More than half (55%) of all U.S. teens (ages 12-17) use online social networking sites, but 66% of these teens say their profiles are not visible to all Internet users, according to a new study from the Pew Internet & American Life Project.

"There is a widespread notion that every American teenager is using social networks, and that they're plastering personal information over their profiles for anyone and everyone to read," said Pew senior research specialist Amanda Lenhart. "These findings add nuance to that story."

Forty-eight percent of teens surveyed say they visit social networking sites daily, or more often. Older girls and boys (ages 15-17) are more likely to use such sites, with girls primarily using them to reinforce pre-existing friendships. Seventy percent of older girls have created an online profile, compared with 57% of older boys.

"Both boys and girls rely on social networks to keep close tabs on their current friends, but older boys are much more likely to use them to meet new friends and flirt in the comfort of an online environment," said Pew senior research specialist Mary Madden.

Related Links:
http://www.pewinternet.org/PPF/r/134/press_release.asp