"Texting-speak is not a mangled form of English that is degrading proper language but instead a kind of 'pidgin' language all its own that actually stretches teens' language skills." The research does show, however, that too much texting can hurt formal essay writing.
Two parents who responded to the original article published online by U.S. News commented:
"It seems (text messaging) allows them to communicate, so why not support it? We want children to develop critical thinking skills and be creative and as soon as they do, what do we do? We and the academia get offended, upset, and stifle it. Why not teach etiquette and proper use?"
"I have found that my son has become a better writer since he has been texting. I encourage him to text rather than telephone and as for the abbreviations, I text him back in perfect, grammatically correct, well-structured prose. I know he's a visual learner, and I think that providing him with constant visual examples of good writing will prove beneficial in the end."
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As for the health risks associated with texting, researchers are speaking out against texting and driving. Some claim it can more dangerous than drinking and driving. Some physicians and psychiatrists also fear the practice of texting can affect childrens' sleep patterns as well as their ability to think for themselves.
Click here to read more about texting and teenage sleep deprivation.
Click here for a study done by Clemson University about the dangers of driving while texting.
