The Role of Cell Phones on the Decline of Face-to-Face Communication

One of the key players that have made massive contributions to the decline of face-to-face communication are smartphones. A large portion of Americans carries a smartphone in their pocket. While typical cell phones were primary used to contact other people, smartphones reinvented the way people used a phone. Whether it's surfing around on social media, or playing games on their apps, people have begun using these devices for self-pleasure. Yet, these devices become so consuming that you begin to become completely preoccupied with your phone. Staring at these devices at restaurants, libraries, an even during family activities have become common amongst Americans. To provide further analysis

The article "How Are Smartphones Ruining Our Communication Skills?" from "Room for Debate" explains the role that Smartphones plays on our communication skills. In 2017, it was found that 77% of Americans use and own smartphones. As a result, many people believe that smartphones have provided a key role in the decline of face-to-face communication and increase of anxiety. This perspective is examined in greater detail in this article, using sources such as "The Atlantic" and the "Institute of Transportation Engineers" to back their claims.

Jimmy Westenberg provide really intriguing analysis on the topic of smartphones and technology in his article "Smartphones Make Communication Easier, Not Exactly Better". He explains that smartphones have made it easier for people to get a hold of someone much faster than any medium before it. However, what has begun to happen is that we have too large of a social network to maintain. It has resulted with many people being victimized through this medium. Westenberg's article also goes over how we become distracted easier and weaken our communication habits. This is one of the most fascinating articles on this issue that shows deeper analysis of the impact that smartphones have on our communication skills.