ITV GMB’s Susanna Reid says ‘they don’t talk to each other’ as she makes family confession
In a recent episode of *Good Morning Britain*, renowned broadcaster Susanna Reid shared her candid insights on the evolving landscape of family communication. Her observations struck a chord with many viewers as she highlighted a phenomenon that is becoming increasingly common among teenagers: the tendency to rely heavily on digital communication rather than engaging in traditional phone conversations. This topic took center stage during a segment discussing an initiative by a UK college aimed at improving students’ phone communication skills.
Modern Communication Issues Faced by Families
Susanna Reid pointed out the stark reality that many young people often prefer to text or email instead of initiating a conversation over the phone. “Everything is online!” she quipped, echoing the sentiments of countless parents who grapple with the same issue. Her co-host, Andrew Pierce, chimed in to illustrate the absurdity of the situation, noting that it’s quite common for children to send text messages to family members even when they are in the same house. In a light-hearted moment, Susanna revealed that she too resorts to texting her children to summon them for dinner, a scenario that resonates with many families across the UK.
The Importance of Communication Skills in Today’s Society
Recognizing the significance of effective communication skills in today’s fast-paced world, Susanna expressed her unwavering support for the initiative that aims to train young people in telephone etiquette. Navigating phone calls can often feel intimidating, especially for those not accustomed to it. She emphasized that hiring tutors to assist in honing these skills is a proactive approach that can help bridge the gap in essential communication that is often overlooked in the current digital age.
During the conversation, guest Kevin Maguire lent his voice to the discourse, stating that a staggering number of teenagers experience anxiety when faced with the prospect of making phone calls. He referenced a poll that revealed nearly 25% of young adults aged 18 to 34 report feeling nervous about answering the phone. Susanna humorously reinforced this point, suggesting that the anxiety could be particularly pronounced when answering calls from their mothers, a notion that surely resonates with many in the audience.
Evolving Communication Landscape
This segment on *Good Morning Britain* poignantly highlighted the disconnect that exists in familial communication due to the pervasiveness of technology. With young people increasingly opting for digital platforms, it is crucial to prepare them for verbal interactions in both their personal lives and future professional environments. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly over the phone is a vital skill that can open doors and facilitate smoother interactions in various contexts.
As our world continues to shift towards more automated and screen-based interactions, the necessity of nurturing traditional communication skills grows ever more critical. By addressing these issues through education and support initiatives, we can equip the younger generation with the tools they need to succeed in a landscape that values clear and effective communication.
In conclusion, the discussion led by Susanna Reid on *Good Morning Britain* invites parents, educators, and policymakers to reflect on the importance of communication skills and take action. With the right guidance and training, we can foster an environment where families engage in meaningful conversations, ensuring that the next generation not only embraces technology but also masters essential verbal communication skills. It is time for us all to consider how we can help the youth improve their communication capabilities for a brighter future.
