A recent study found more and more people are using texting as a kind of ‘digital distance’. Researchers say, technology is making many of us cowards when it comes to breaking up with a partner or sacking staff. We opt to send text messages or email to when relaying bad news to friends, colleagues or partners.
Over seven out of ten of us admit delegating difficult tasks at work by email and text. More than half use an email or text message to apologise for mistakes. One in eight of us has resigned via email or text message while 2 per cent of bosses have fired someone with an email or text message, according to a survey by Post Office Telecoms. Also revealed is that 3 per cent of adults admit to ending a relationship by text in the past 12 months.
“Each generation’s communication style can differ dramatically, sometimes leading to inappropriate behaviour or cultural insensitivity, says Stewart Fox-Mills, head of telecoms at the Post Office. “Digital technology is constantly giving us new ways to communicate. But we’ve found that many are using modern technology to avoid face-toface or verbal confrontation.” Gary
Hi,
I think the full ramifications of breaking up via the net is still to be exposed. There is the break up itself, but because of social networking sites like Facebook, there is the aded emotional turmoil of seeing your ex out and about having so much fun after the break up.
So there is the residual pain that may take a lot longer to get over, whereas in the past we heard about our ex partner through friends in dribs and drabs.