In an age filled with texting and messaging apps, phone calls seem to be becoming a relic of the past, particularly among younger generations. A recent survey by Sky highlights the change, suggesting that avoiding phone calls isn’t just a preference; it’s a reflection of anxiety.
This anxiety is not entirely new. Traditional forms of speaking can cause a release of oxytocin (催产素), which helps reduce social anxiety. However, in the absence of physical gestures and the comfort of a known audience, phone calls can increase these anxieties, making the experience feel more serious.
Phone conversations can be embarrassing due to the lack of body language. In face-to-face communications, we rely heavily on gestures, facial expressions, and body language to understand messages, which are absent in phone conversations. This can lead to misunderstandings and a feeling of disconnection. Besides, the pressure to respond immediately without the time to think, as afforded by messaging apps, can increase the anxiety connected with phone calls.
Although they may cause discomfort, phone conversations are an important skill. In the professional world, the ability to communicate effectively over the phone remains a skill of great value. Therefore, it’s a must to teach younger generations, including Gen Z, the art of phone conversation, not just for professional success but also for developing personal relationships.
Moreover, adding emotions to communications improves memorability. Phone conversations, with their immediate and personal nature, can produce a deeper emotional connection than text-based communication.
While it’s understandable why phone calls can feel uncomfortable in today’s digital age, it’s important to recognize the value they hold in effective communication and relationship building. As we reduce this “phone anxiety”, it matters to encourage and learn the art of phone conversation, balancing the ease of messaging with the depth of a real-time voice call. This balance is key to keeping healthy, meaningful relationships and ensuring personal and professional growth in an increasingly digital world.
【小题1】What makes phone calls less popular?| A．A preference for social apps. | B．Need for physical presence. |
| C．Difficulty of making calls. | D．A reflection of anxiety. |
| A．Comfort from strangers. | B．Puzzling body gestures. |
| C．Limited time for replying. | D．Bad interpersonal relationships. |
| A．To memorize information. | B．To promote exchange. |
| C．To gain confidence. | D．To show politeness. |
| A．Methods of achieving personal growth. | B．Benefits of communicating over phones. |
| C．The importance of reducing phone anxiety. | D．A request of balancing voice calls and texting. |
