Introduction
Today, technology and the Internet play a crucial role in the lives of young people. With their help, youth can get information, communicate with friends and relatives, and study and work remotely. Technology and the Internet offer a powerful way to bring young people closer together, provided it is used appropriately.
How Digital Technology Unites Youth
Communication
The primary argument for how technology and the Internet foster closeness among young people is their ability to enable quick and convenient communication. For example, messengers and social networks allow young people to stay in touch at any time, from anywhere in the world (Spaniardi and Avari 71). Moreover, with applications such as Zoom and Skype, among others, video conferences can be held with friends and relatives in another city or even another country. Thus, technology and the Internet allow youth to stay connected even if they are far apart.
Common Interests
The second argument in favor of the youth approach, due to technology and the Internet, is that they provide common interests and hobbies. For example, many people find friends and acquaintances who share their interests and hobbies on social networks. Moreover, there are numerous online communities and forums where young people can communicate and share their experiences in specific areas (Spaniardi and Avari 80). For example, communities exist for video game, movie, and music lovers. Thus, technology and the Internet enable youth to connect with others who share similar interests and hobbies, thereby fostering their sense of closeness.
Other Technologies for Common Entertainment
Beyond the Internet, numerous other technologies foster social bonds among young people. Specifically, computer games and game consoles often serve as a shared basis for conversation and friendship. When young people discover common interests in games, they can spend a great deal of time together discussing their achievements and exchanging experiences (Spaniardi and Avari 130). Furthermore, various other technologies, including mobile applications, social networks, and messengers, can also contribute to youth closeness. These technologies offer convenient and fast communication methods that facilitate the discovery of common interests and friendships.
Conclusion
Young people use technology and the Internet to communicate, and both can foster friendships. Due to quick, easy communication and shared hobbies and interests, children can easily find friends and acquaintances in both the virtual and real worlds. Nevertheless, it is vital to remember that technology and the Internet can be misused, leading to isolation and other social problems. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between virtual and real life, utilizing technology and the Internet to connect with others, rather than distancing ourselves.
Work Cited
Spaniardi, Alma, and Janki Modi Avari. Teens, Screens, and Social Connection: An Evidence-Based Guide to Key Problems and Solutions. Springer Nature, 2023.