October 29, 2008
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October 29, 2008
By Erika Weisensee,
About a year ago, my husband pointed out that I had a whole bunch of unanswered text messages in my cell phone’s inbox. My first thought was, “My cell phone has an inbox?” Even more amazing, was the idea that friends and family were texting me. After a friend gave me a quick lesson, I started sending little messages to the texters in my life. But within a few weeks, the novelty of texting had worn off. The truth is, I don’t need one more way to communicate with people. I already have two email addresses and two voicemail systems, and texting is tedious. Typing a sentence on my phone’s tiny keypad is more difficult than just dialing the number and talking. I still text a little, but only when a phone call is inconvenient.
Texting has become the preferred method of communication for youth. With nearly 50 percent of teens admitting to texting while driving, there is real cause for concern. The Internet is now littered with information about texting addiction, and news reports of stalking and harassment via text messages have given parents one more thing to worry about.
As a college instructor, I frequently witness the texting phenomenon. Curious about why they love it so much, I recently had students write about the mysterious appeal of texting. Many students praised it for its convenience (being able to text anywhere, anytime) and speed (avoiding a long, drawn out phone conversation). Some students even said they are less shy when texting.
Though they “luv 2 txt,” college students understand that texting is just another option on the communication menu. Surprisingly, they were quick to point out its shortcomings. “You can never say all you want to say,” one student wrote.
I couldn’t agree more.
### Erika Weisensee is a writing mom. She lives in Milwaukie and teaches journalism and communication courses at the University of Portland.
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We’re finding that texting can be a very expensive mode of communication. So, now, when setting up a new cell phone contract the unlimited text feature is a huge part of the decision process.
I actually find texting very useful. Infact Im using my phone as Im writing this message. I have 4 kids. I cant always be on the phone talking or sitting at the computer. Having the text and Internet feature is essential for me.
You all miss the point. With phones you can choose to not accept a call, but with texting the person sending the message KNOWS you received it. There is no hiding, no privacy, no personal space. At least with email you can say you overlooked it or it ended up accidently in the junk box. Someone please invent a texting blocker –will pay cash!
Texting to me is just sending one thought, to get it off your brain. My daughter pointed out to me that many people text while in meetings to get rid of the boredom.
Some thoughts might be best left inside one’s brain.
LOL
Texting can be very convenient, it’s true, and used appropriately, it is a helpful means of communication. Many kids abuse it, by overuse, and for cheating in school. They also “hide” behind their phones and do not have to be real to each other. They don’t learn to communicate face to face, which is essential in the adult world.
I absolutely agree… when you text you don’t get to say everything you would like to say. I would much rather talk to the person over the phone. Here is a text etiquette question – when someone sends me a text am I expected to text them back?
No Maddie, you don’t have to text back. Particularly if you are charged for it. Don’t text if you have to pay for the messages individually.. its a rip off
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I couldn’t agree more! Unfortunately!! I’ve come to find that in order to keep the lines of communication open with the kids you have to jump into their modes of communication. I email. They text. Communication lags. I text. They text. Communication flows.