The Advantages of Cell Phones to Youth

As a parent with a child or teenager who insists that you get her a cell phone, you likely have some well-founded reservations. However, while you keep track of the natural dangers associated with young people̵7;s irresponsible use of cell phones, be sure to consider some of the advantages of cell phone use, too. Your balanced view has a powerful influence on your child.

  1. Security

    • Cell phones offer peace of mind and security for both you and your child. Think of it as a portable 911 calling device. You will also have immediate communication access to your child, and she will have immediate communication access to you. If she locks herself out of your home or locks her keys in a car, she can get help immediately. Cell phones send pings to cell towers every 5 to 10 minutes, which makes it possible for police to track your child's location should she ever need help and is unable to use her cell phone.

    Accountability

    • Youth are especially susceptible to dangerous behavior when their parents don't know where they are. Know for sure whether your teen is at an off-limits party, the home of a questionable friend, at a notorious club when you use a GPS tracking feature available through most mobile phone carriers. Tell your teen that you can find his location at any time. This will give him a sense of accountability and an extra incentive to do the right thing. Sure, he could try to lose you along with his phone, but chances are he'll want to keep his phone close by at all times.

    Time Management Tool

    • Use your child's desire for a personal cell phone as an opportunity to teach her self-discipline, social etiquette and effective use of communication tools. Give her weekly limits to her talk time and number of text messages and take away privileges when she goes over. Of course, reward her when she keeps within the limits. This helps her learn how to prioritize her time and keep an agreement.

    Social Interaction

    • Cell phones to youth are direct lines to social life. Help your child tune in to the lives of his peers. Teach him how to use a cell phone to encourage his friends and grow relationships. Warn him of what constitutes irresponsible cell phone use and urge him to report illegal activity immediately.

    Connection

    • A 2007 report prepared for the annual meeting of the Midwest Political Science Association in Chicago revealed a positive correlation between text messages that encouraged youth to vote and actual voting activity. This is an example of how media outlets and other organizations use text messaging as a powerful way to communicate with young people. Help your teen keep connected to the world around him when you give him access to it.

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