In an age where wives are finding out via Facebook that their husbands are leaving them, a business owner might take pause when considering a social media marketing strategy.
It seems lately Twitter, too, is used more as a harbinger for bad news and celebrity gossip (just plug in a search for Tiger Woods and sit back for the fireworks), and one wouldn't be surprised to guess if a business owner wants to curb social online interaction in favor of less sensationalized promotion.
Is that a wise move, however? The recent news implying that Facebook usage, among utilization of other networks, is responsible for global marital breakdown is fascinating, yet it is hardly an innovation.
If a marriage has floundered before Internet use became a factor, one can't necessarily place the blame on social media.
While sites like MySpace, Bebo, Facebook and others allow old friends (and consequently old flames) to reconnect, it's also a helpful communication tool for families.
Fathers keep track of their children's activities, married couples share photos and videos with friends, and often talk to one another.
It may not be the ideal situation, and may fast be replacing the night dinner around the table, but social media can work as well in strengthening familial bonds rather than severing them.
Anyone using a social network to expedite divorce could easily do the same with anything else - an obsession with sports or other activities, long hours at work, and so forth.
Social networks in and of themselves are not evil.
To be certain, people have abused their better qualities for nefarious purposes, but as such stories are few and far between this should not deter a businessman or company from refraining from their use.
For every new item of a threat posted on a blog there are more detailing how people have used social media to find missing children, obtain help for needy families, or reunite siblings separated for years.
How can you keep a positive focus on marketing through social media? Always maintain a healthy attitude when you post items of interest.
Not everything you share needs to be company related, and it's good to engage friends and followers in conversations that highlight a brighter side to humanity.
Does your company support a specific charity or non-profit? Find links and articles that showcase the good they do.
If you've hosted an event recently, share pictures and video.
Social media is about making your own news - so make it good.