How Has Technology Changed the Way We Communicate

There is little doubt that technology has drastically improved the lifestyles of many. It has had a solid impact on almost every part of daily life, including communication. Communication progress has made a great deal of progress recently and promises to continue doing so for the foreseeable future. Since the invention of the telephone, there have been numerous other developments that have dramatically changed the way we communicate with one another. The Internet, cell phones, tablets, web cams, and more continue to change the landscape of human interaction.

What Effect Has Technology Had on Communication?

Almost everything imaginable has both good and bad points. Technology is no different. When we take a careful look at the impact of technology on communication, there are both positive and negative impacts that must be considered. To get a true picture, we must look at the most popular forms of communication, such as telephones, cell phones, emails, and more. Many of us have become so dependent upon these technologies that we would have difficulty functioning without them.

Positive Impacts of Technology on Communication

Probably the most impressive impact of technology on communication is that it has made the world a much smaller place. With current methods, it is possible to shoot a message to a friend around the world with the same ease that we can communicate with a next-door neighbor. Here is why this is so important:

• Stronger relationships – Since it is so easy to stay in touch with friends and relatives, people today enjoy a much higher level of closeness in relationships.
• Collaboration – Modern communication allows for a freer exchange of thoughts and information that has allowed us to solve many problems.
• Easier education – Video conferencing, webcasts, and online classes have made it possible for a larger range of people to get an education.
• Enhanced social life – Dating and chatting websites have made it extremely easy to meet new people and to make a one-on-one connection.

Negative Impacts of Technology on Communication

Many people argue that evolved communication has removed the charm and sophistication that was present in the old days. Handwritten letters and notes and deep personal conversations have been replaced by hurriedly composed chats, emails, and texts. Here are some of the bad effects of technology on communication:

• Loss of interpersonal communication skills – Today’s generation has lost much of the ability to express ideas in person. In addition, many people have lost the ability to read nonverbal cues from others.
• Breakdown of families – As people spend more time on technological communication, they spend less time with family members. The gap is especially wide between parents and children.
• Reduction of true socialization – Many people are turning to sites like Facebook for social interactions instead of getting together with people in real life.
• Addiction – Thousands of people have developed addictions to social media and cell phones.
• Increase in malicious behavior – Since it is much easier to be cruel when hiding behind a computer or cell phone, many people use electronic communication as a way to be malicious toward others.

While technology has provided a mixed range of changes to our communication, there is no doubt it is here to stay. All we can do is to try to maximize the positives and eliminate the negatives so our society is not damaged by further advance.