Technology has definitely changed the way people communicate. Some people use it because it is faster and more convenient. Other people use it because they are cowards.
I try to accommodate people’s communication preferences. Personally, I want people to call me. However, I have friends who live by text messaging; other people respond mainly through Facebook. Still, some thrive off of e-mail. I get all of that. But, what is really getting to me are the people who use all of the technology to be cowards.
They will avoid human conversations and contact at all costs. Technology makes this possible. So, how do you communicate effectively with someone who hides behind technology?
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Interesting perspectives, Marcie. I actually use all of the above. But, I think for many, technology affords more convenience. You don’t have to worry if you’re calling at a “good time”. You can also send an Email at 2 a.m. without imposing. Also, you can limit the amount of time you spend interacting.
Though some that use it may be cowards, I don’t think the vast majority of us folks are. 🙂 Just my 2 cents…
After writing this I had to wonder if I was using it for convenience or cowardice. I guess it depends on the discussion and the person.
Some people may be cowards and hide behind technology to communicate when they would benefit from face-to-face or phone conversations more; but for some, technology allows them to communicate in some form when without it they may totally isolate themselves.
The REAL cowards are those who post nastiness online and do not ever reveal their identities. They do not have the strength of their own convictions; they just want to make other people miserable too!
Diane, I never considered the individuals that would totally isolate themselves without technology. Do you know of any of these people personally?
Been offline for a while! Working outdoors doesn’t mix with computer screens very well. But I do love summer!
As to your question–I am probably one who would be more isolated without my computer. I do almost anything possible to avoid using the phone, and I have gone weeks without leaving the house when I’m depressed.
I have many friends who benefit from socializing over the internet. Some of them are physically disabled and others are like me and have mental issues that end up making them isolated because it’s so easy to get into your own head and ignore the rest of the world.
Also, some people I know live physically isolated in rural areas and with tech they can have more interactions and even businesses without a physical presence in an urban/suburban location.
I am also a member of many online support groups where people find others with the same problems across many miles to share with. They often feel more comfortable with some anonymity especially if they live in a small town where gossip about them can be as challenging as bullying.
Thanks for clarifying this for me. I had no idea.
It’s absolutely amazing the range of lifestyles and personalities that make up the human race. The internet has just made it easier for us to find each other!
Of course some people will end up more isolated and end up abusing it like any other addictive pastime. But that’s just how things work. Technology isn’t bad–or good–it just is. How we use it determines if we help or hurt ourselves or others.
Thank you for your insight, Diane. I may quoting you in future workshops. I like “how we use it determines if we help or hurt ourselves or others.”