By MaST Healthy Panther Post reporters | Whether you’re sending messages via text or email, chatting through video, or sharing data in realtime, tools like smartphones and smartwatches act as personal hubs of instant connection, according to an article on the Walden University website.
Technology gives you a chance to communicate with anyone anywhere. It connects you socially with friends and family.
“If you use digital technology at all, chances are you’re staying connected with people who you might otherwise have lost touch with and regained friendships,” according to the article, “How Is Digital Technology Changing Our Interactions with Each Other?” on the Walden University website.
Healthy Panther Post reporters interviewed Ms.Gouldey, seventh-grade technology teacher, who has observed how kids use technology to socialize. “A lot
of kids use Instagram and TikTok in ways that are negative such as bullying, singling people out, reposting negative things, and sharing them,” Ms. Gouldey said. These actions have negative impacts on kids, can lead to depression or getting a Student Assessment Performance (SAP) referral, she said.
But the technology teacher said the negative effects of technology can be prevented by “having parents more involved and more hands-on.” They need to know what their kids are doing online.” Parental involvement can help these kids connect with others in a healthy way without any risks, she said.
Illustration by Kone, 6th grade, CCSA, 2025-2026.
