The Influence of Technology

Technology has had a positive and negative influence on my life.
Negatively, it has made me crawl back into my introvert shell that I am so used to. It is much easier to comment on something on Facebook because of the visual barrier. No one can see my red face if I get embarrassed or angry, or any other facial expressions that one may not desire. It also has given way to a new cyber-bullying. There are a lot more hurtful things said on Facebook because more people have the courage to write something, rather than to say it. Facebook has also become an addiction. I remember when I was in Germany, I made a pledge that I wouldn't go on Facebook for a week. I succeeded, but it was the longest week of my life.
Similarly, my iPhone has been an addiction. I had never had a cell phone (which I am paying for on my own), until  I came to college and now that I have it, it gets tough to put down. My dad also gets frustrated when we are sitting in the living room on our phones. He is old-school and doesn't understand how writing something on a screen is more appealing than intimate, eye-to-eye conversation. I agree with him 100% and wish so badly that I could just set my phone down for a day and not think about it.


Positively, technology makes it easier for me to stay in touch with my host family and friends over seas. I couldn't imagine staying in such good contact if it weren't for Facebook or iMessage. I know other people who haven't been over seas can relate, because there are foreign exchange students over here that have to go back home sometimes and technology makes it easy to keep in contact.
Generally, technology is the fastest way to send and receive information. Sometimes that can be life saving. Just like the advanced technology in hospitals and clinic have saved lives. I think technology is good for saving lives, but it can be detrimental to the next generation's social and behavioral skills.