I have an electrical outlet in my bedroom that works with the light switch. It works but i have not needed to use it until recently. I went and plugged in my lamp and when switched on, i saw this glow behind outlet in the wall. No sparks, no burning smell. I shut it off immediately.

What is going on?

It means that you have an arc. Most likely caused by a loose connection.

Do you know whether your home was wired with copper or aluminium conductors?

If you are not familiar with electrical work, then I strongly suggest you call a licensed electrician.

If you are in rental property call the landlord and make sure he sends a licensed electrician to check the receptacle.

Sure the glow is white, is this a pilot light switch possible.

This home was built in the early 70's if that helps with what type of wiring was used.

Amy,

The previous post is an excellent question. Is this a new switch?

I am concerned about your level of experience. Please call a licensed electrician.

Mid to late 60's through the very early 70's Aluminium wire was used heavily in residential wiring. The price of copper went through the proverbial roof. The aluminium wire itself is not a real problem. The problem was that a very lot of Aluminium wiring was done with copper devices (switches or receptacles, etc). These caused problems because copper and aluminium do not play well together. The heating and cooling (expansion and contraction) of AL when mixed with copper devices will cause weaker and weaker connections. Also, the two different wire chemically react to each other.

I do not want a fire starting in your wall because of the heat from an arc.