There are many ways in which cellphones have changed us socially—both positive and negative. On the positive side, greater connectivity can be a lifesaver. For instance, if you get into a car accident in a remote area and you need urgent medical attention, you can immediately call for help instead of trying to hike to the nearest gas station or waiting for a passerby.
Smartphones can also enrich our lives and enhance our quality of life in certain ways. Imagine, for example, a person who desperately needs mental healthcare, yet is too introverted to walk into a therapist’s office. A smartphone app can connect this person to a qualified therapist—all from within the comfort of the patient’s home.
But even as cellphones have improved life in certain ways, they can also be detrimental. Since countless people carry out their daily routines with their cellphones close at hand, it’s often assumed that if you send a text to a friend or coworker, you’ll get an answer right away. The expectation of near-instant results can fuel a lack of patience in other areas of life.
Text-based communication can also lead to misunderstandings. Because auditory and visual conversational cues are lacking in text messages, it can be easier to mistake gentle sarcasm for a rude remark. This may lead to a rise in misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
Along similar lines, for many people, cellphones are a gateway to social media. As long as you have access to a signal, you can check your Facebook, Instagram or other apps within a matter of seconds.
Some people lead active social lives in the real world and only use social media to enhance their real-world connections. Others place a high priority on the number of “Likes” they get on a picture and may become anxious or depressed if they think their online friends are ignoring them. Because cellphones make social media more readily available, some people may fall victim to social media-related depression and anxiety.
