In her essay entitled, “We’re Breaking up: Non-communication in the Silicon Age”, Rebecca Solnit states, “Previous technologies have expanded communication. But the last round may be contracting it” (p. 258). It’s hardly debatable that the advancement of technology has and will continue to affect the way people communicate. What is debatable, is whether or not it is a change for better or worse. The truth is, it is both. Just as there are benefits with the advancement of digital communication, there are also compromises. Technology has changed how modern society communicates today which has affected interpersonal relationships, social and emotional intelligence, and the effectiveness of communication in the workplace.
In modern day society, …show more content…
Researchers may not be able to see the full effects technology has on the development of social skills at this point in time, but it is apparent that young people today spend a great deal of time in front of the screen. The dependence on digital forms of communication can impede the development of emotional intelligence in face to face interactions (Harmon, 2013). If a person spends most of their time communicating by email or text, they may fail to learn how read social cues which can negatively impact their ability to navigate interactions on a daily basis (Harmon, 2013). Harmon (2013) argues that people with emotional intelligence exhibit better capability in dealing with life’s demands, as well as maintain stronger relationships at home and work. Technology and digital forms of communication are only expanding, so it is important that face-to-face communication does not diminish as a result. Interpersonal skills are like muscles, they need exercise to stay in shape (Harmon, 2013). Emotional intelligence and social skills are learned throughout childhood, but that does not mean they cannot be lost or weakened without practice. With the dependence on computers and phones in all aspects of daily life, it’s important that face-to-face communication is not lost. Harmon (2013) suggests that in order to keep social skills strong people …show more content…
Despite the convenience and potential to improve efficiency, digital forms of communication could have equal consequences. The presence of mobile devices may affect the level of connection felt in relationships. The overreliance on digital forms of communication may also impact the development of emotional and social intelligence. Along with the impact on interpersonal interactions, it may also contribute to miscommunication and misunderstandings. All of these have the potential to harm interpersonal relationships and how well people can interact with others outside of their mobile device. Technology will continue to grow and expand, as will digital forms of communication. This is something that is as much inevitable as it is beneficial, but that does not mean there will not be compromises. It is vital that face-to-face interactions remain just as active as digital ones because it keeps social and emotional intelligence skills sharp, helps us develop and maintain relationships, and ensures effective communication in the professional world as well as everyday life. Technology will only continue to expand and it is vital that the value of real world relationships is not lost in the
In modern day society, …show more content…
Researchers may not be able to see the full effects technology has on the development of social skills at this point in time, but it is apparent that young people today spend a great deal of time in front of the screen. The dependence on digital forms of communication can impede the development of emotional intelligence in face to face interactions (Harmon, 2013). If a person spends most of their time communicating by email or text, they may fail to learn how read social cues which can negatively impact their ability to navigate interactions on a daily basis (Harmon, 2013). Harmon (2013) argues that people with emotional intelligence exhibit better capability in dealing with life’s demands, as well as maintain stronger relationships at home and work. Technology and digital forms of communication are only expanding, so it is important that face-to-face communication does not diminish as a result. Interpersonal skills are like muscles, they need exercise to stay in shape (Harmon, 2013). Emotional intelligence and social skills are learned throughout childhood, but that does not mean they cannot be lost or weakened without practice. With the dependence on computers and phones in all aspects of daily life, it’s important that face-to-face communication is not lost. Harmon (2013) suggests that in order to keep social skills strong people …show more content…
Despite the convenience and potential to improve efficiency, digital forms of communication could have equal consequences. The presence of mobile devices may affect the level of connection felt in relationships. The overreliance on digital forms of communication may also impact the development of emotional and social intelligence. Along with the impact on interpersonal interactions, it may also contribute to miscommunication and misunderstandings. All of these have the potential to harm interpersonal relationships and how well people can interact with others outside of their mobile device. Technology will continue to grow and expand, as will digital forms of communication. This is something that is as much inevitable as it is beneficial, but that does not mean there will not be compromises. It is vital that face-to-face interactions remain just as active as digital ones because it keeps social and emotional intelligence skills sharp, helps us develop and maintain relationships, and ensures effective communication in the professional world as well as everyday life. Technology will only continue to expand and it is vital that the value of real world relationships is not lost in the