Texting is Risky Business

We are living at a fast pace due to advanced technology. We are able to communicate with the use of various means such as cell phones, black berries, and blogs etc. One method of communicating is by text messaging which it is estimated over 80 million people text regularly. Also, there is a growing trend of teenagers who text regularly.

My friend, who teaches English, is challenged each time she gives students writing assignments to discover a substantial number of them are unable to write a complete sentence ; moreover, a high percentage abbreviate words similar to the cryptic codes used during texting when writing formal papers. It appears texting has replaced the English language and with this growing trend, teenagers could possibly adopt texting as a second language.

Writing skills are integral in almost every aspect of our lives. Employers look for applicants who have excellent writing skills to fill management positions. Colleges and universities review the manner applicants express themselves when applying for admission. Yet if texting continues at this rate, it could possibly create a new society set by teenagers who accept text as the norm. If this is the case, it is disturbing because texting could possibly compromise their writing, reading, and spelling skills. We should ask ourselves: If texting continues to be the growing trend among teenagers, will this population be prepared to write essays? What will they do when asked to write a summary on a job application? What if they decide to attend law school where they are required to write briefs, would they be prepared?

There is, however, a solution to ensure teenagers are not at risk of texting by improving their writing skills. This could be accomplished by suggesting they write a daily journal, and by reading more wholesome literature. These strategies may prove successful and possibly inspire them to maintain a higher standard of the English language.

Texting is not only risky in compromising writing, spelling and reading skills, but a growing number of vehicle accidents and fatalities have been associated with texting. There are approximately thirty states in the US including the District of Columbia have banned text messaging; moreover, Paramus Post News paper September 6, 2010 edition, headline reads: "Text Messaging Adds to Growing Accident Statistics of Inattentive Drivers" Texting is indeed risky business.