Cell Phone Usage in a Shopping Center

Cell Phone Usage in a Shopping Center

Abstract

Since the emergence of the smart phone, interpersonal interaction has declined drastically in most first world countries. Not only found among the most thought of generation, those in their teens and early twenties, but also the elder generation has been seen to suffer from this pandemic spread of this particular device. This is, in large part, because the increased ease of access of Social Networking Sites (SNS), News, and increased texting capability. The writing divulges deeper into the correlation between smart phones and interpersonal communication. My findings point to individualism, lack of common manors, and a blatant disregard for those in our immediate surroundings. Accordingly, this writing will give insight to human interaction while shopping using a cellular device.

Keywords: smartphone, desocialization, interpersonal communication.

Cell Phone Usage in a Shopping Center

Thompson and Cupples (2008) state that concerns are being voiced by dystopians, in regard to mobile devices, is that extensive use will destroy face-to-face communications. O’Grady (2012) reports that information collected from the US and seven countries in Western Europe, 2 trillion SMS (Short Message Service) were sent in 2011, averaging 6 billion per day. This paper explains accounts of rudeness for those sharing the same space and trying to peacefully shop, while showing their irritation as well, by listing detailed accounts of disregard to common courtesy.

Methodology

Utilizing the local Wal-Mart, I conducted a series of observations with ages ranging from, approximately, 13 – 60, and the majority were of Caucasian ethnicity. There were approximately 40 people observed and 10 of those were seemingly under the age of 18. The observations were conducted in Bryan, Ohio. There was no personal interaction with the subjects (observation-participant), as I did not want to make them aware of their habits and possibly taint any...