WASHINGTON, Oct 31 (Reuters) - U.S. Internet users are spending their time online talking about sports, religion, health, politics and a wide array of other subjects, according to a study released Wednesday.
Eighty-four percent of Americans with access to the Internet participate in online discussion groups, said a report by the Pew Internet and American Life Project.
Discussion groups draw more participants than other online activities like shopping and trading stocks, the report said.
Contrary to the popular image of computer users as socially isolated, the report builds a case that the Internet allows people to be more social than ever.
The global computer network allows people from all corners of the globe to talk about shared passions, while at the same time building local ties by organizing neighborhood meetings and petitioning local politicians, the report said.
``For vast numbers of Americans, use of the Internet simultaneously expands their social worlds and connects them more deeply to the place where they live,'' said Lee Rainie, director of the project.
Among the report's findings:
* Half of those who participate in online groups say it has given them a chance to meet people they would not have otherwise.
* 37 percent say participation has allowed them to meet people in different age groups.
* 27 percent say they have met people from different ethnic or economic backgrounds.
* Men tend to participate in groups discussing professional issues, politics and sports.
* Women tend to join medical support groups, local online community groups and entertainment-focused groups.
* 60 percent participate in group discussions, while 43 percent send comments several times per week.