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The Impact of Technology on Interpersonal Communication

Many people argue that technology has made society a better place; however, when it

comes to communication, it is a two-sided sword. In terms of the former, it provides one with

unique opportunities for instant connectivity; in the latter, it often hinders the creation of

meaningful contact. The shift from the use of telegraphs to smart phones and social media as we

see it has brought about a drastic change in methods of passing information, bringing out

controversies on whether this transformation benefits or deteriorates relations among human

beings. This essay will, therefore, seek to examine the social implications of communication

technology in society for health communication and argue that while using technology has many

advantages, it raises questions about the nature of authentic face-to-face communication.

Agree Points/Reasons

One advantage of employing or using technology is that it makes it possible to converse

in an instant, even from distant areas. WhatsApp and Skype on social networks let individuals

communicate with relatives and friends anywhere in the world. For example, Yuan et al. (163)

pointed out that the main reason why most adults in the United States access social media sites is

to connect with friends and family members. This accessibility gives a leeway for the fact that
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although people may be separated by distance, the relationship can continue. According to me,

travel experiences are updated in real-time, and frequent communication strengthens the social

ties of individuals as communication becomes more fluid.

The other benefit of technology is the availability of different commutation means to suit

those with various inclinations and requirements that enhance their communication. Instead of

the face-to-face format, there is an opportunity to select the most appropriate variant: email,

video, or audio call. This versatility likewise adds not only to the complexity but to the

accessibility of physical activity as well (Humeniuk et al. 35). For instance, introverted people

may prefer writing and viewing text to speaking on the phone or face-to-face. In contrast,

extroverts may prefer video, phone calls, or face-to-face with the help of technology. These

kinds of choices enable people to express themselves in a manageable way or within the realms

that are most comfortable to them, with the aim of enhancing interactions within certain social

circles.

The contemporary denotes its role of giving voices to minorities and making information

available to the public. More often than not, social media is used for social analytical movements

and effective group organization. For instance, Ford et al. (275) described how technology could

be employed to plan for the protests and spread information as and when needed. The media

creates an environment where a largely diverse population must transact, and technology

enhances this aspect of common communication. This is important for any large group activity,

as people from different backgrounds can get involved in discussions and initiatives that can

make a difference in society, thus making the communication process more effective and

beneficial.
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Counter Argument and Objection

One may agree with the criticism stating that technology leads to the creation of shallow

connections and communication expressed in short messages and emoticons. Concerns have

been raised about the superficiality of communication due to the overuse of technology and a

lack of interpersonal communication skills as a result of only engaging in short written or voice-

only electronic communications (Ford et al. 277). It can result in misconceptions and the absence

of real affection between not only spouses but also acquaintances and friends. Also, there is the

concept of 'technological ratification,' where people tend to opt more for virtual relations than

actual interpersonal relations, which has potential effects on the overall relational quality.

Indeed, the use of digital communication tends to be poorer in some measure than face-to-face

communication full-stop; to judge it inferior is, however, a generalization. According to the

findings of Nguyen et al. (2047), such digital media do not replace conventional forms of

communication but support them in some way. These tools can strengthen bonding as people can

stay connected who would not have time or distance to meet physically. Moreover, it is a perfect

place to build a community of like-minded people and have support that otherwise cannot be

found. For instance, online forums and associated social media groups offer companionship for

people with similar emotions and values.

Conclusion

Analysing the role of technology in shaping communication, it may be stated that this

process is rather conflicted and diverse. The permutations include direct contact, multiple

communication avenues, and the provision of information to everyone. Thus, it can open up

opportunities but also face issues such as a lack of close human contact and over-reliance on
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technology. Innovative and inclusive communication in terms of technological factors requires

that these aspects be balanced effectively. As a result, it is possible to build an environment that

would positively facilitate technology's strengths and negate its negative aspects, which fosters

people's improved real-life relationships in society. As we proceed deeper into the world of

technology, we must not forget that developing good relations and character involves us

responding with proper care, genuine concerns, and deliberation.

Work Cited

Ford, Bryan, et al., "Technologizing democracy or democratising technology? A layered-

architecture perspective on potentials and challenges." Digital technology and

democratic theory (2021): 274–321. https://books.google.com/books?

hl=en&lr=&id=aXoWEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA274&dq=technology+has+democrat

ized+access+to+information+and+provided+a+platform+for+marginalized+voices.&ots=

GJUtNacnSC&sig=ym4vdjarvh6cy4K-22q3M-R4eqY

Humeniuk, Tetiana, and Pavlo Romaniuk. "On the development of information and

communication technologies in education of the future: the possibilities of cloud

computing technology." Futurity Education 3.1 (2023): 34–44 https://futurity-

education.com/index.php/fed/article/view/92

Nguyen, Minh Hao, et al., "Staying connected while physically apart: Digital communication

when face-to-face interactions are limited." New Media & Society 24.9 (2022): 2046-

2067. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1461444820985442

Yuan, Shupei, et al., "What do they like? Communication preferences and patterns of older

adults in the United States: The Role of Technology" Educational Gerontology 42.3

(2016): 163–174 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03601277.2015.1083392