Technology And Social Media In Society

Technology can be used as a form of entertainment, a means of communication, or a way to become more educated, but most of all, technology is a way of life. The use of technology globally has only increased in recent years, as scientists discover bigger, better forms of it. As science continually moves forward without pause, society willingly moves with it. Unfortunately, there are cons to the never-ending use of technology. The use of extensive and advanced technology diminishes the bonds between families, friends, and couples who use it. Admittedly, technology helps tremendously when it comes to communication. Teens are able to use social media to keep in touch with friends or even meet new ones. Pew Research Center conducted a survey that

The use of social media in society is unbelievable. Smart Insights states, “10 years ago on 7% of the US population used one or more social networking sites. Now that figure has increased almost tenfold, to 65%. Of those who use the internet a massive majority of 76% of Americans use social media.” With the increased use of social media and internet, basic social skills and habits are disappearing. Teens today have become accustomed to sending texts to each other, rather than communicating in person. Teens and adults alike do not know how to have a comfortable conversation. People nowadays are becoming handicapped to their phones, unable to give up the ability to erase and rewrite their response before sending. Communication with cell phones is convenient and safe for most people. However, with the use of texting and social media, people are sacrificing personal connections. Andrea Rodriguez said in an article on The Bottom Line, “Little by little, Internet and mobile technology seems to be subtly destroying the meaningfulness of interactions we have with others, disconnecting us from the world around us, and leading to an imminent sense of isolation in today’s society. Instead of spending time in person with friends, we just call, text or instant message them.” Friends continue to lose personal connections with each other as the convenience of texting

In this day and age, couples do not have the pressure to grow close to their partner in order to get to know them. Psychology Today explains, “There used to be a mystery behind getting to know the other person, effort behind learning about one's history and likes and dislikes, rather than the simple click that comes with a Google search or the pervasive Facebook stalking.” The bond between couples who deeply understand each other is unnecessary, for the effort that goes into getting to know someone can now be replaced by reading a Tinder bio. In the past, people went on dates and called each other on the phone in order to grow closer. This generation, however, can know their partner’s interests before even directly talking to them. Successful relationships are not achievable without communication. In addition to this, The Institute for Family Studies said that 62% of women say technology interferes with leisure time with their significant other. IFS also goes on to say, “Many of these interruptions are likely unintentional or unconsciously done, but can still send a message that the technology device is more important in that moment than one’s romantic partner. If this happens frequently, the relationship could suffer.” This concept fits in with the “together, but not together” idea. Couples who are together, but distant from each other, are not as healthy as those who minimize their