What sites are NJ 101.5 staffers addicted to?

The widespread use of smartphones and mobile devices is leading to more of us being connected all-the-time.

According to a new Pew Research Center survey, 21 percent of Americans report going online "almost constantly."

Overall, 73 percent of Americans go online on a daily basis. Along with the 21 percent who go online almost constantly, 42 percent go online several times a day and 10 percent go online about once a day.

And it is not just the younger generation.

The research found that 28 percent of people ages 30-49 are in this category, with another 12 percent of those ages 50-64.

Rutgers Sociology professor Dr. Deborah Carr said many people rely on online sites to simply stay connected with what is going on in the world.

"Something shocking like a death or a terrorist attack, or something kind of fun. The internet, Facebook, and Twitter are the ways we learn what's going on."

She attributes the rise of older Americans being constantly connected to greater job commitments, trying to stay engaged with their friends and family, and even a rise of online dating.

"I think what people do varies very widely based on your age," Carr said. "The internet is essential in keeping them engaged in both world events and landmarks with their family, and children, and grandchildren."

There are some pitfalls to this trend though. Many people foster relationships through online contact, which means they prefer not to talk in person or even on the phone.

"So, their communication skills are really starting to wane," Carr said.

She also believes while social media can be great for support during a rough time and kind words on a birthday, it can also foster very negative attitudes and discussions on topics, such as religion and politics.

"It's always a good news, bad news situation," she said.

We asked the New Jersey 101.5 staff what sites they are constantly visiting (of course, in addition to NJ1015.com and our new mobile app). Let us know your go-to sites in the comment section below.

Here is what we learned: