In our current society, many young people (and lots of us old folks;) complete more and more communication via text messaging. Although this can seem efficient and time-saving, there are a few key ideas to keep in mind when managing relationships (friends, romantic partners, family members) over text messages…
- Don’t overtext. Texting should not be your only form of communication. If you really want to get to know someone (or to manage your relationship with them), texting should not be your only form of communication. (You might want to get together and chat)
- Know when to text and when to call.
Generally speaking, you don’t want to text emotional content. If the topic you
are addressing is a pretty big deal, it is probably worth a phone call (or even a face to face conversation). With texting, we miss out on important cues such as tone of voice and body language to help us navigate the conversation.
- Don’t Text Anything You Wouldn’t Say in Person.
Phones are not meant to be relational forcefields (protecting you from other people’s feelings). When in doubt, read your text out loud and check if you are willing to say it to the other person’s face. If not, your text play is unfair and inappropriate.
- Never text
- nude or inappropriate photos of yourself or others.
Texts might be quick and easy, but they are no place for communication about things that are meant to be intimate. Learn how to help your children create a healthy body image.
If you or someone you know if stuggling with navigating relationships, with or without inappropriate texting, we are here to help!
