Here's a quick shot of the segment on ABC News Now
I love the parenting host of ABC News Now, Annie Pleshette Murphy. She’s really in touch with what’s happening on the YA scene and had some good questions during our interview about BOYOLOGY. One of the recurring questions I’m getting from TV anchors and radio hosts is, “So how different IS it being a teenager today than when we were teens?”
But before I go into differences, I have to say that the butterflies, the heartbreak, the awkward first phone conversations are still the same. Not much really changes when it comes to love. But technology has added a few elements to dating, so here’s a quick primer:
1. CELL PHONES: Welcome to easy, breezy, and lower-risk communication. Texting can make that initial conversation less awkward because you’re not face-to-face. But that said, you can’t do the whole relationship by text. Make sure you can actually talk to each other. And be sure you’re smart about what you send out. This is important for everything you do online. I’ve heard some heartbreaking stories from girls who sent pics of themselves to boyfriends that were then sent to everyone. Remember that once you hit send – on anything! – you lose control of it.
2. FACEBOOK: I will just say, I love facebook. I’ve reconnected with some old friends and it’s an easy way to keep up with people. But when it comes to break-ups, facebook can make things that much more painful. The broken heart icon, having everyone comment on your wall to see what happened, not knowing whether or not to de-friend your now “ex.” I always say, when you first break-up with someone, step away from the computer and take a little break. Give yourself at least a day to think things over before you have to face the barrage of “friends” online.
3. IM’ing: So much easier than email. And emoticons can be cute, unless used to often and then they’re just annoying. But again, tone is hard to read. (Even with those smiley faces.) One guy I met told me his girlfriend broke up with him because he wasn’t “emotive enough” over IM. Seriously? This guy really liked her and I think he still does. But how many guys are really going to write love poems over IM? How do I love thee… I wouldn’t count on that. Remember, you must talk! IM is for quickie conversations or when you’re stuck in the library and everyone is shushing you.
