Cell phone use may enhance social skills
February 23, 2010 by Leslie E. Packer PhD
Filed under Research
Many parents are understandably concerned about their children spending too much time on their cell phones and wonder whether the cell phone use might actually impair social skills because face-to-face interaction is missing. A recent news release from the University of Michigan suggests that cell phone use might have some benefits:
Cell phone use actually strengthens bonds and supports face-to-face contact with friends and family, new research shows.
The University of Michigan study counters concerns that cell phones are replacing in-person social contact and detracting from civic and community involvement. The research suggests that cell phones may help some people become more socially involved with clubs and community organizations.
“Voice calling and texting complement in-person interactions and help fill in the gaps between in-person gatherings, keeping the cell phone user updated,” said Scott Campbell, assistant professor of communication studies and study’s lead author.
