Do teens need cell phones? In today’s world, the simple answer would be yes. The ease of communication that cell phones provide at a provide at a relatively cheap cost makes cell phones invaluable. I’m here today to argue that cell phones are not only disruptive they can be outright dangerous. They interfere with family communications, can be a dangerous distraction to drivers, and very possibly addictive.
Cell phones are a dangerous distraction to drivers. Because of this the state of Ohio has banned texting while driving. According to handsfreeinfo.com texting or use of a cell phone by a driver is now a primary offense and a reason to be pulled over by the police. Tickets for adults are $150. Teen’s fines are $150 and a 60 day suspension. Multiple offenses can result in the loss of license can result in the loss of license for a year.
Cell phones are also an issue when used in a school classroom. According to school security.org “School disruptions can come in a number of forms. Ringing phones can disrupt class and distract students who should be paying attention to lessons at hand. Text message has been used for cheating.” In an article by Patrick Barham and Stephen Moss in the guardian they point out that cell phones can be used as a tool for cyber bullying.
Beyond the legal and ethical problems that cell phones present in the school, there’s also the etiquette issue of cell phone use at the dinner table. In an article in Social tech.com (2013) a study issued by the use Anneberg Center for the Digital Future, 62% of Americans feel that it’s not all appropriate to have a cell phone at during dinner. 76% say texting at dinner is not appropriate and 80% feel web browsing is not appropriate. In a New York Times article Play With Your Food. Just Don’t text by Sara Rimer she states “The family meal is a social event, not a food ingestation event.”
Teens are also more apt to use their cell phone in bed this can have a two-fold effect on sleep. In article in the...