What is interesting is that SAT scores show that in the last few years the overall scores on the essay portion of the SAT have improved immensely. One reason this may be the case is because teens are doing more writing than ever because of technology. When there was a day where writing a note or message would have made a teen nervous or uncomfortable, those days are over. The average teen would not hesitate today to send off a note or write a quick message. One teen even made the comment that the IM language and pop slang that is used is for speed but that teens have not forgotten how to spell and how to use the English language correctly.
Another issue that comes into play is when teens text and drive. This is a growing problem and many states are putting laws in place to make it illegal. Distracted driving is a huge cause of motor vehicle accidents and some lead to death and serious injury. Teens need to be talked to seriously about the privilege that a phone is and the consequences that come from misuse of the phone and it's features.
With texting comes picture messaging (pix messaging). Teens also need to be talked to periodically about the hazards of forwarding pictures to people and the issue of what is decent and what isn't. They need to know what can come back to hurt them potentially so they know to avoid certain actions.
With all things there needs to be moderation and the issue of teens and texting is no different. While SAT essay scores are on the rise we should be grateful that there are positive things in pop culture. As parents we also need to watch for the pitfalls and help our teens avoid them when we can. Parent contracts can be used in some cases if you think that expectations and consequences need to be laid out in a clear and orderly fashion so that the teen will without a doubt understand what you are saying.
