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Text messaging has become a standard form of communication for some people. Rather than dialing a number, people rattle off a quick "text" to their friends and family. These messages can often be very brief, and can include specialized abbreviations and language that must be learned by people in order to survive the text messaging world. This form of communication can be extremely helpful, but it also has some drawbacks. Here are a few of the pros and cons of text messaging.

THE GOOD PARTS OF "TEXTING"

Text messaging is a great way to stay in touch and maintain networks. In a busy society, it is a way for some people to maintain a large number of relationships without having to give any of them a large amount of time. Sending off a quick text to just check in with a friend or acquaintance is easy and can be personal if the person is also a regular text messenger. It is also a good way to get at people and give them a message if they are not available. For example, if someone is in a meeting, it can be helpful to send them a quick text and alert them of a key piece of information. This is terribly convenient for people who are managing multiple resources and responsibilities.

THE HASSLE AND ADDICTION OF TEXTS

Of course, the things that make text messaging good can also make it bad. For some, texting is an addiction and it takes up a great deal of their time. They may maintain a great number of relationships, but the dialogue can be shallow and the relationships may not develop just with texting. There is also the hassle of text messaging. While some people can type quickly, other may have a hard time fitting their wide fingers on the narrow keys. Sending a message of any length can be a frustrating exercise, particularly if someone is unfamiliar with the mechanics of a cramped cell phone keyboard.

Overall, text messaging has its benefits but it can also be a hassle and a distraction. It may continue as a practice, or it may go the way of many other trends and disappear after a time. Only time will tell, but in the meantime, LOL and have fun texting your network. Just make sure you see them once in a while IRL.

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
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