Generation Digital; Not Just A Generation, But A Fad

Today is class we talked about "Generation Digital." I discovered, through random questions in class about our texting habits and also our "addictions" to cell phones, and instant communication with our peers and the link with technology, that I am just barely past that generation. I have barely touched the surface of having such addictions, and those started later in high school and continue up to now. I don't think I actually got texting until like sophomore year, and even though I had a phone in 7th/8th grade, I didn't use it the way I have adapted to using it now. By adapting, I mean that I have become one of "generation digital" members, I was not always this way. In college, it's such a good excuse because, "I'm far away from home" and
"My friends...blah blah blah..." but things like Facebook are really useful tools to talk to people who I can't reach through the phone (yes, including texting) and that is the easiest way to contact them, such as family.

So what is this digital generation? Its a generation that is highly dependent, even more highly dependent by the day on such electronic devices that either keep them occupied, or communication tools that will help them constantly keep contact and be informed of their peers whereabouts. Today, Professor Macek brought a few points to the table that I had not really thought about. The amazing number of teens, especially tweens, that are wanting to have cell phones in 5th and 6th grade is really increasing. The need in adolescent years for constant communication has always kind of been there, but seems to become more evident with this digital generation. I thought it was interesting that there is a link between how tweens and teens have the need to be accepted with their peers and everything and technology is giving them just that in a nutshell. But are kids becoming like this? Are they even wanting to be like this? Or is it just a fad that is catching on like any other fad? I know that I did not ask to be addicted to reading Facebook, nor did I hope that one day I wouldn't be able to breathe or let alone function without my cell phone. Is it advertising that is having an effect on this kids or is it simply a catching trend?