When was the last time you heard your phone ring or a notification sound for a text? Chances are your phone is on Do Not Disturb even as you read this piece. While Gen Z was born with smartphones in their hands, what's surprising is that they’re scared of one of its main purposes: reaching out to others in real-time via phone calls.
Phone calls have become a source of anxiety for post-millennials. An unexpected call can lead to a racing heart, sweaty palms, and thoughts like, “Why did you have to call me out of nowhere without any prior notice?” Most of us would let the phone ring and text the person 15 minutes later, asking why they called.
Statistics suggest that 90% of people prefer texts over phone calls because asynchronous conversation gives you the control and freedom to express yourself whenever and however you want. There’s no pressure to reply on the spot. Many people read texts from their notification bar itself, allowing them to decide when and how to respond. You can think of the best reply and then send it with your favorite emojis or GIFs. If you make an error, it takes just a second to edit or delete the text. In contrast, phone calls are like uninvited desi relatives, always making you feel awkward. Moreover, texting allows multitasking, but phone calls demand your full attention, which is difficult to manage, especially if it's an impromptu call.
According to USwitch, 71% of voice calls in 2021 were under five minutes, compared to 77% in 2020 post-lockdown in the United Kingdom. User @J8ONGYE0N on X wrote, I think my friend is mad at me cuz I keep putting off phone calls but I just hate calling ppl pls, while user @TheXoTehja wrote, I hate when ppl call my phone do not call me.
While texting allows you to take your time and saves you from phonophobia, it comes with its own set of cons, such as overanalyzing texts or misinterpreting the tone of the conversation. By avoiding phone calls, Gen Z is missing out on the essence of real-time spontaneous conversations. There have been times when people struggle to express themselves well or find the right word in a given situation, leading to err-ing and misunderstandings due to a lack of spontaneous interactions.
So next time you call your friend, be prepared for your call to go unanswered and receive a text later saying, “Wassup, you called?”