Generation Y grew up surrounded by technological progress. Technology has developed faster than it ever has before. As a result, cell phones have become almost, if not more, essential than food, water, and shelter. The ever-growing smartphone market allows people to be constantly connected to the world. However, they also have the ability to make individuals even more disconnected than ever before. While cellular devices have astronomical benefits, they have hindered our ability to communicate in a face-to-face environment. We are constantly on the phone all day, staying up to date on what's happening in the world or connecting with the people around us. While this seems like a good thing at first glance, in hindsight it causes the destruction of our ability to communicate face to face. According to a series of studies conducted by Andrew K. Przybylski and Netta Weinstein of the University of Essex, it has been found that cellular devices can hinder communication in relationships, be they romantic or platonic. Traditionally, dinner time was a time when families could share their day and connect with each other. They could look at each other in the flesh, empathize and relive their day. Now that the wait times have been eliminated, the silence has been filled by Facebook updates and text messages. A survey provided by Cisco shows that globally, one in five members of Generation Y checks their smartphone at least once every ten minutes. Since the popularization of cell phones, people around the world have benefited from the convenience of being able to pick up the phone and call almost anyone you can imagine, no matter where in the world they are. To convey news you don't need a telegram or message. letter; it is a… medium of paper… in many ways, it has also changed the way social interactions take place today. The majority of the average person's day is spent checking their phone, whether it's a sports or news update, an upcoming game, or even meeting an aunt in Australia. While this initially appears to be a good thing, in hindsight, it has caused the destruction of our ability to communicate face to face. The world is now at everyone's fingertips; they have the ability to be connected to the world but individuals are more disconnected than ever. The art of communication has been lost due to angry birds and lack of body language. Individuals have nothing to share because they have already done so via SMS. Cell phones are not a necessary evil; they are like this due to improper use. It is up to the individual to determine when they cross that fine line.
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