Hiding behind IM

In the book Datacloud, Johnson-Eilola’s perspective concerning IM is a little too positive.  I find that it is scary that the author asks his students if they would rather prefer cell phone, email, or IM, and the students overwhelmingly choose IM (pg. 96).  I have been a substitute teacher and I manage high school kids sometimes at my job, so I am well aware of teenage attraction to IM.  And I understand the appeal.  IM alleviates all social anxiety – more so than a phone. 

The IM generation will not call someone if they are mad at them – they will jump on the computer and IM their anger at the convicted.  Why?  To avoid confrontation.  The IM generation will not break up with a lover or ask a person on a date, face to face.  Why?  Because its scary.  Because it is uncomfortable.  I believe IM is not helping the social development of teenagers.  As Nietzsche states in The Twilight of the Idols: “Out of life’s school of war: what does not kill you, makes you stronger.”  I am grateful for every time I was required to withstand and confront embarrassment, hurt, and anger face to face in the cruel environment of high school.  It wasn’t fun; however, the experiences made me a better person.