Have Smartphones Destroyed A Generation Summary

In the September 2017 issue of The Atlantic, Jean M. Twenge factually accounts for the brisk changes in “Generation Zs’” ways of living as compared to generations before. The article, entitled Have Smartphones Destroyed a Generation, validates and justifies with evidence that the release of smartphones and tablets has left an entire generation to develop unfamiliar habits. The author explains how Generation Z, or ‘iGen,’ grew up with technology and has not known about a time before the internet. With this upbringing, there have been evident “shifts in teen behaviors and emotional states,” as found through years of national surveys. Emerging from these changes, teens are physically safer, but tend to have higher rates of suicidal thoughts or

This article intends to prove that problems will arise for children who grow up with a phone or tablet in their hands that generations before did not have. However, I believe that some statements divert into stereotypes, and have the tendency to become exaggerated. Converted false and extreme, the quotes taken turn to a stance that is no longer true to the child and many in the child’s position. Written from the perspective of a person decades older than the child accounted for, I believe that Twenge should have interviewed more persons of varying ages in order to prevent a narrow outlook. For example, within the title, the word ‘destroyed’ is one-sided and puts further connotations on the circumstances than need be. Over time, smartphones can destroy individuality, genuine friendships, respect for others, and sleep routines. However, none of these examples are extreme cases and will vary from person to person. Balancing out or even outweighing these negatives, benefits arise from the creative and social outlets. Also within the article, the main points proven retain little relevance to teens true experiences in the closing

With use at this young of an age, children are more susceptible to the dangers that accompany them. Having access to the internet through these devices generates additional threats. Lacking education internet safety, those labeled ‘iGen’ could release out personal information about themselves, making them easier to track or attract predators. Phones can also be a distraction while driving. In 2012, 21% of teens involved in automobile accidents used a cell phone at the time of the accident, distracted from driving safely (edgarsnyder.com). Another negative argument is that teens are less likely to leave the house without their parents. In my opinion, I believe this to be true, as I know of many parents who force their children to leave the house and do something with their friends. Even more appalling, teenage rates of depression and suicide have risen significantly, as much as 24 percent in the last 15 years. Nonetheless, the extremity of these disadvantages will vary from age to age. Younger teens would be more likely to use their phones, as they are not as consumed by mandatory responsibilities. Notwithstanding these negatives, smartphones can be beneficial to the