How Young People Communicate-A Czech Perspective

Abstract

There appears to be a relationship between the latest communications technology and how effectively young people communicate. It is a world-wide phenomenon. This research investigates how young people in the Czech Republic communicate today in an era of increased use of social media and mobile technology. The research was limited to the city of Olomouc. Results suggest that face to face communications by and amongst young people are diminishing fast at the expense of social media such as Facebook and What’s App and sending SMS text messages. This trend could have adverse affects in future on how well young and older people live and work together within their communities. The outcome of this research suggests that proactive steps should be taken now to educate young people in the appropriate use of mobile technology and social media. It would ensure that they retain their ability to communicate effectively not just with their peer groups but also with other age groups and with people from other cultures. Social \Psychology/Psychology needs to take a much more proactive role to address this issue so that the lives of people at all ages can be improved. The outcomes of this research should be of interest to other countries, too, as this phenomenon is not limited to the Czech Republic.