Texting Etiquette 101
Technology has improved and increased dramatically over the last couple of years. One area of technology is extremely popular in this day and age. Two words: text messaging. As the Tuolumne County Youth Commission and being “youth,” we having had first-hand experience with this technology. Everyone has a different opinion on the prospect of texting; pros and cons of plenty :)
Pros
- Great way to keep in touch
- Sent from anywhere, portable
- Takes less time, unlike calling
- Mini e-mails
- Can strengthen relationships
- Ease of communication with your parents for safety purposes or to communicate important information (ex: where to be picked up, change in a sports or activity schedule, etc.)
- Send the same message to several people at one time
Cons
- Abused if used too often
- Shows less honest emotion
- Not as personal
- Can become a block between you and another person
- Tempting to take up time to spend in other areas (ex: family, school, work, etc.)
- Tempting to text during class
- Can destroy a healthy relationship
Tips:
- When you are having a conversation with someone in person, it is polite to put the phone away and give the person you’re talking to your full attention.
- Make sure there is a balance between the time you spend with school, family, work, friends, and your phone.
- Keep in mind that your actions show how much you respect someone.
- It is best not to text during class or meetings. It distracts you from learning important information that could be very useful in the near future
Cell phone technology and texting in specific, has grown so much over the years and all we can do now is know how to rightfully use it. Texting can be a very useful and productive. However, like any tool, texting can be abused and be a distraction. But if used wisely, it is an efficient and effective way to communicate.
