Texting & Relationships: The Double-Edged Sword
Alright, I admit it here and now - as a man quickly approaching 40, I just do not understand the widespread popularity of texting.
In fact (gasp!), I have never sent a text to my family or friends! Sorry, but when I see someone furiously texting away when a 30-second call would have sufficed, I just shake my head as I sit in my cave back in the stone ages.
Seriously, texting as a means of communication seems here to stay. However, this fact has made me wonder how does texting factor into romantic relationships?
If a couple communicates frequently by text, how does real intimacy ever develop?
How can one distinguish between the various nuances displayed by vocal tone and body language if texting is the preferred means of communicating?
Recently, I stumbled upon a fascinating article that not only examines the role texting plays in many interpersonal relationships, but also gives some very astute advice on how to use - and not use - texting to enrich your relationship.
You can visit the article by clicking here: 10 Texting Rules For Dating Singles to discover more information.
Then leave us your comments.
We want to know what you think!
Also, please sign up for our free bi-monthly newsletter to have articles like these delivered right to your inbox!
If you found this message valuable, please share it across the internet.
communication, dating, flirtexting, flirting and texting, relationship advice, singles, texting in Communication Print Article Email Article Saturday, September 5, 2009 at 5:47PM 
Email Article to Friend
Reader Comments (5)
I don't really understand texting. There's something about seeing I love you at the end of a message on a small screen versus hearing it over the phone that's just not the same. Of course in person is best of all.
Tina, I could not agree more!
Reading a text stating "I love you" just does not have the same impact as hearing it from your loved one.
I understand where you are coming from, and no sorry i did not read the article you had posted. But as a young adult being filled with technology my whole life. I really do not mind texting. We have been together for two years and yes... i would love to see and talk to him in person, but when at work or out with friends i love getting my little reminders that hes thinking about me or misses me and vise versa. My main concern with texting is my boyfriends unwillingness to accept feelings in person. We can have a wonderful night or date together, and the very next day im getting thousands of messages about how I did or said something wrong that made him upset or angry. Before we were together he like you, did not find the point in texting, but now it is his only means of expressing his feelings and emotions. I'm sorry to ask for advise on a subject you yourself does not fully understand... but if you have any ideas on how to improve our person to person communication I would love to hear it. also I really enjoy your page :]
First, sbond, thanks so much for sharing your story. My advice to you would be this: The next time you and your boyfriend are together in person, have a conversation with him about how you feel about his primarily using texting to express his true feelings.
However, keep in mind to try not to accuse him or make your conversation confrontational. Instead, when expressing your feelings say, "When you express your true feelings to me only via text, it makes me feel ...." It's hard to argue with someone's feelings.
Also, may I suggest a compromise. When you both have something truly meaningful that you need to express to each other, try to agree to do so in person (or at the very least via telephone) whenever possible - out of mutual respect for one another.
I truly hope these suggestions help you. Good luck!
I believe that texting serves as a way for shy men and/or women to communicate and express what they are truly feeling without feeling embarrassed in doing so.