by Kelly A. Mello

Created on: February 29, 2008

Text messaging weaseled its way into our everyday means of communication just a few years ago, despite all of its pitfalls. While some cry out against all the dangers of text messaging, however, there are certain instances where it comes in handy. People just have to make a judgment on when it is appropriate and when it is not.

Appropriate uses
If you are around people and do not feel like disclosing any personal information to the general public, text messaging can allow you to send the receiver a private message.

Likewise, if you are in a public setting, like work, and do not want to disturb surrounding parties, texting is a good means of communicating silently.

People get sick and lose their voices. Of course then it would be okay to use text messaging in place of a phone call.

At times we are in a rush somewhere and have to time to carry on a full length phone conversation. In this case, it is easier to fire off a brief text message to get your point across.

Inappropriate uses
The most obvious inappropriate use of text messaging is to do so while driving. When a driver's attention is divided, there more likely he is to get into an accident. And with so many people partaking in texting and driving, the chances of a collision are even greater.

According to a Nationwide Insurance study, an estimated 20 percent of drivers are sending or receiving text messages while behind the wheel, most of them teenagers or young adults. In the news recently, there have been quite a few car accidents where one of the drivers involved were text messaging. Because of this, legislators from various states are working on banning this practice while operating a motor vehicle.

Next, texting is not appropriate while in certain locations. When dining out, for example, the person you are with will not appreciate that he or she is taking the backseat to an invisible third party. It is also rude to the poor waiter who is trying to take your order.

In general, it is impolite to text message while with anyone, anywhere. Just as you should not take any phone calls, you should not start pounding away at keys, ignoring your company.

The use of text messaging in class is a no-no no-brainer. It can be very tempting to find out an answer to a test or quiz, but this is a reprehensible offense. Do I hear "detention"?

Texting in places like church and theaters are inappropriate as well. To do so is disrespectful, plain and simple.

There are many times when text messaging is an acceptable means of communicating. Then again, there are many times when texting can be dangerous or just downright rude. With a little commonsense, people can figure out when and when not to start tapping away at their phone.

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