An interesting survey as reported in Brand Republic showing young people building online networks of friends but still liking face-to-face meetings where possible. This contradicts many comments made a few years ago that 'online' would kill social skills in kids and confine them to a life of cybersocialisation.

What is interesting is the last few lines:

However, when given the option, most young people would rather not use technology to communicate. When asked how they prefer to keep in touch, 53% chose face-to-face communication, with 23% opting for text messaging. Social networks were preferred by just 2%. Use of sites such as MySpace declines as teenagers grow old enough to go out on their own with friends.

Indeed, young consumers show little interest in technology itself. When asked what they enjoyed doing, the top answers were listening to music, watching TV or DVDs, and spending time with friends. Surfing the internet ranked only ninth.

That is not our experience. Our observations and experience is that Facebook and other social media sites are used very actively to keep in touch with 'friends' and plan social lives. I guess, as with all research, it is how the question is framed and how the participant interprets the data that is being sought.

Our understanding is that young people are consuming more online - DVDs via PC and online TV itself - plus creating and watching content as on YouTube. For them the 'smart phone' mobile content is growing in importance. Traditional TV, radio and newspapers are all declining as sources of information.