Growing Up Online

882 Words2 Pages

I find it disconcerting that teens live much of their lives in a virtual society. “Growing Up Online”, barely scratches the surface of the breadth and depth to which technology permeates modern society. Teens continue to struggle for independence and self-identification, but with less face-to-face interaction than in the past. Many view e-communication as reaching out to the masses. Texting, the internet, and social networking connect many people with those otherwise unavailable to them. However, the connection is less personal, and more tenuous than real social encounters. As technology advances greater numbers of teens expose themselves to risk of predation, stunted social skills, and a skewed view of the physical world. The speed of electronic communication and the abundance of readily available information are the internet’s greatest strengths and threats, many lack ability to distinguish between the fact and fiction that abounds in cyber-space. Allowing teens to find their unique identity is crucial but should not be done in a vacuum of parental supervision or genuine social interaction. Teens may be technologically savvy, important in a culture reliant on technology, but have fewer skills in dealing with real people. The economic divide pushes those without financial means further from those with internet access and the latest gadgets. How did we survive as teenagers without cell phones and texting? Increasing reliance on e-communication puts those unable to avail themselves of technology at greater disadvantage as they enter adulthood and the workforce. Nevertheless, these problems are not confined to the youth of the world. Many adults disconnect from those around them spending more time in the virtual world. As with ... ... middle of paper ... ...he benefit of diversity created by reaching millions of others would be equally beneficial developing teens that are both technically savvy, and possessed of social skill. One teen in the film found after he enlisted in the Coast Guard his internet access was suddenly and substantially restricted. In the end he realized how dependent he had become on the internet, and now is thankful he no longer relies upon it so greatly. An electronic image of the Sistine Chapel ceiling will never accurately convey the awe-inspiring sight of Michelangelo’s work. Having a text or instant messaging exchange with another is no substitute for engaging in the lively art of conversation, and cell phones will never replace the responsibility of parenting. Texting, instant-messaging and the internet are useful tools if properly used, they are not a substitute for participation in life.

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