Going by a study forwarded by the researchers at the Pew Center and the University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication, there are no facts to substantiate the widespread apprehensions that the escalating use of the Internet and other personal technologies has brought about the social isolation of the Americans.

Based on a 2006 research, by sociologists, Miller McPherson, Lynn Smith-Lovin and Matthew Brashears, which said that the 'core discussion networks' of the Americans - comprising those with whom a person discusses important matters - had shrunk over the last two decades, the new study said that such fears were groundless.

Presenting a completely contrasting view to the earlier research, the Pew researchers noted that the Americans' 'core of close confidants' had actually expanded as well as diversified, thanks to technological advances, including the Internet, mobile phones, social networks, photo sharing sites and instant messaging.

The Pew researchers said that rather than their assumed withdrawal from social interaction, the US Internet users, in fact, more regularly visit public places like parks or coffee shops.

The study's lead author, Keith Hampton, a sociologist at University of Pennsylvania, said: "It turns out that those who use the Internet and mobile phones have notable social advantages.

People use the technology to stay in touch and share information in ways that keep them socially active and connected to their communities."