UPB's Klausner Presents Paper onTtexting at Sociological Conference

Dr. Michael Klausner, associate professor of sociology at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, presented a paper about teens’ use of texting devices at the 60th meeting of the Pennsylvania Sociological Society held at Mansfield University.

Klausner’s paper, titled “The Ubiquitous Use of Electronic Devices by Teens for Communication and Learning: An Interdisciplinary Analysis,” discussed the effects that teens’ frequent use of electronic devices may have on their learning, identity, attention span, interpersonal relationships and tendency towards bullying.

He noted that research has shown that it is not uncommon for teens to text message as many as 2,000 messages a month. The use of electronic devices for many has become an essential part of their “identity” and has led to a “dependence” on such if not a downright “addiction” to the technology.

Klausner discussed research indicating that both teens and adults “process” material that is read off computer monitors differently than when it is read off the printed page. In addition, he noted that while “bullying” has always been common among teens, electronic modes of communication have allowed it to be done around the clock and without their experiencing the immediate consequences of such behavior.

He also discussed research indicating declines in “emotional intelligence,” civility and attention span among teens who send and receive a large number of text messages. His preliminary research indicates that children who are home-schooled text-message their friends at a significantly lower rate than those who are not home-schooled. He intends to determine what factors are responsible for such a difference.

Klausner teaches a variety of sociology classes. He spends his summers in New York City, where he is involved tutoring homeless children.