The question is almost inescapable. "Mom, Dad can I get a cell phone? Everyone else has one." Well, not really. An NOP World Technology Study released this month finds forty-four percent of American teens between the age of 10 and 18 own a cell phone, and that percent promises to grow.
So what are the pros and cons of teens having cell phones? Some teens spend hours chatting with friends, while others use their phones only for parent-approved situations. Some parents say cell phones are a hazard and a distraction for teens, while other say it helps them keep in touch with their kids.
West High freshman Celine Dammond said her parents bought her a phone to keep in contact with her
"I know that my parents might not let me do something but if I have my cell phone they know that I can be safe because even if it runs out of batteries you can make an emergency call to 911 if something happens on my phone," said Dammond. " I always feel safe because I know that I can call people whenever in case I get in trouble."
Cell phone technology is advancing everyday. They aren't just payphone substitutes anymore; users can now talk, text message, or even take pictures with their cell phones. Teens can communicate with friends and family at all times, even during the school day.
West High teacher Joseph Schumacher said cell phones disturb his class on average 3 times a day.
"I don't see a practical purpose for having cell phones within a classroom because I think it is a diversion form the curriculum being presented in class," commented Schumacher.
Arie Henry is a west high freshman who doesn't have a cell phone. He says cell phones are just a trend
"Its almost like a fun little play toy," said Henry. "With ninth graders and up you know using their cell phones and text messaging in class"
So whether you believe teen cell phone usage is an advantage, or a drawback, the statistics show the cell phone trend is bound to keep spreading.
Pros and cons of cellphones
