Technology and family communication response

1. Has communication weakened with the passing of time?

Yes communication has weakened with the passing of time. Here, elements such as social media and social distancing have created a society that does not rely on face to face communication to express thought and opinion. In addition, the anonymity of the internet allows people to express very hateful and derogatory rhetoric towards others. Finally, the ability for misinformation to permeate throughout the internet presents challenges as it relates to proper information exchange. All of these elements have not only weakened communication, they significantly undermine the foundation of society. Here, the lack of communication has created silos in which people of opposite ends of the spectrum refuse to communication with each other in a constructive manner. In addition, social media only exacerbates this issue, as information is heavily filtered to cater to confirmation biases. Essentially people are often relying on either inaccurate information or information that does not represent all points of view within a particular subject. This ultimately harms the manner in which society can make informed decisions.

2. What factors hinder effective communication with families?

For one, the lack of face to face interaction often hinders family communication. As society is currently constructed, many families have two working adults. As such, it is often difficult within both parents having jobs and careers to properly communication with each other. The appeal of text messaging, video conferencing, email, and so forth adds convenience by often at the expense of an intimate in-person interaction. This hingers communication within families as they are often unable to communicate within a social setting. In addition, virtual communication can often be misinterpreted as it doesn’t provide context behind the words displayed on the screen. Finally, without these interactions, families are losing the spontaneity that often helps to foster stronger bonds and connections

3. Has technology-aided or hindered families in today's society?

Technology has aided and hindered families in today’s society. It has aided society by providing more convenience, access, oversight and efficiency. Technology, within a family dynamic can do everything from schedule an appointment using only voice communication to conducting a medical check up all from home. However, as noted above, it has also created a litany of issues related to misinformation, hateful and abuse rhetoric without corresponding consequences, cyber bullying, and more.

4. What can aid communication with families?

Setting aside “family time” with no cell phones, tablets, or computers is an essential element of communication. Here, outdoor activities can provide a benefit to families in society as they are better able to interact and communication naturally within one another. More important, it slows life down somewhat to allow families to enjoy each other and their company as oppose to the next post or status update on social media.