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Should Teens Carry Cell Phones?
Wireless Phone Services are “all the rage” with teenagers, but should teens be allowed to carry cell phones? That’s the controversial
question many parenting experts can’t seem to agree on.
Tight Leash, Spoiled Brats, Or Smart Parents Some experts attribute the rise in cell phone usage to paranoid parents who want to place tight leashes on their children, but after speaking with several mothers of teens with cell phones, it’s obvious that’s not the case. The rise in teen cell phone usage has come about as a way for parents to loosen the reigns while gaining peace of mind. With cell phone in hand, teens are given more independence, more flexibility, and more trust. Getting a cell phone for their daughter was “her father’s idea,” says Pamela Sitton, a freelance writer from Lenexa, Kansas. “I was initially opposed. I didn’t feel it was necessary for a twelve-year-old girl to have a cell phone. In fact, I thought the idea was ridiculous. However, after she got it, I really began to see the value. She loves to ride bikes with her friends and the cell phone allows me to give her more freedom. I can always get in touch with her and it’s comforting to know that if she needs me—or God forbid, needs the police—she has the means to get help.” Other experts argue that the rise in cell phone usage is because teens are spoiled brats who have nothing better to do than find ways to be in the “in crowd.” While that may be true in some cases it’s not the norm. Many teens understand the value of cell phone usage—value that breaks down to keeping mom and dad sane, whilst they learn to become responsible, young adults. And besides, cell phones are cool, fun, and convenient! Security And Maturity But do cell phones offer a false sense of security and maturity? The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or a no. The answer truly depends on each individual family and how well that family communicates before and after the cell phone is purchased and used. Yes, used alone, cell phones can offer a false sense of security. Cell phones don’t automatically mean teens are safe from predators, bullies, or other hurtful situations. And of course, maturity cannot be evaluated simply because a teen calls home on time. But if parents and teens agree to a pre-determined set of rules, stay up-to-date with the latest gizmos associated with cell phones, and restrict usage of the cell phone, then and only then, can we safely assume cell phones offer more security than being without one. Should Your Teen Carry A Cell Phone? Before handing over a cell phone to your teen, make sure he (or she) is mature enough to handle the responsibility. Use the following questionnaire to help you decide:
About The Author Alyice Edrich is a mixed media artist, freelance writer, and aspiring photographer. She enjoys creating things that bring joy to others. Visit her blog, Coming Home, to check out her latest art. Or stop by her resume site, AlyiceEdrich.net to learn how you can hire her for your next project. Reprint Rights This article may NOT be reprinted without monetary compensation and written permission from the author. For reprint rights or comments/questions about this article, please contact the author. |
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