Statistics are beginning to show a growing ho-hum user attitude when it comes to mass social networks. According to a recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle, there simply appears to be too many … and they’re too much alike. Now, it appears, astute Internet socialites want a more targeted communication outlet for their particular wants and needs. Now, instead of using such traditional outlets as MySpace, Facebook, et al, they are interested in developing social relationships on more targeted websites with content more in line with their contemporary needs.

According to Michael Jones, founder and president of Userplane, a pioneer in communication platforms for the enterprise community messaging, social networking sites are built around a single premise: connecting people who share a common interest and making it easy for them to exchange information. In their quests to make it easier for the like-minded to interact, says Jones, social networks are starting to introduce site-specific messaging. Social networking has changed the way millions of people communicate, creating niche online gathering places for people with similar interests.

The search for specific types of social networking sites change at different times. Experts predict the next step will be networks splintering off by people’s interests. And as this first-generation era of social media matures, there will be more niche sites rather than general platforms.

But the bottom line remains: There is definitely a growing proliferation of social sites while many young users seem to be reaching their tolerance of online sharing. Going forward, the general expectation is that consumers will, ultimately, settle down with one of two social networks. Although social networking sites encourage users to develop a network of friends that, in itself, can become overwhelming if you’re on more than one site.

But, for niche-specific sites, the opportunities are endless. And so are the audiences. And, even though social networking, although relatively new to the Internet, it is, for all its pluses and minuses, definitely here to stay. And, for those, such as expats, who are looking for more centric networking, the doors are just beginning to open to newly-found friends and resources.