LANGUAGE AND HUMAN COMMUNICATION IN A DIGITAL AGE: EFFECTS ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS ON THE NIGERIAN YOUTHS

Abstract

Technology in a digital age, characterized by human-computer interactions, has dramatically Ttransformed the world in various ways, enhancing rapid flow in the way we communicatewith one another. Digital technology has significantly influenced language in some ways(such as, new vocabularies and styles). Language is a powerful instrument in bringing peopletogether and at the same time it can be used to create enmity in relationships if not well used. Bytransforming language, the digital technology also transforms communication positively. With theadvancement of the digital era, there has been a noticeable contrast in the way humanscommunicate. This study examines human communication in a digital age and the effects on theNigerian youths. This study portrays the Nigerian youths as those within the ages of 18-29. Theobject of this paper is to show how electronic technology has played significant roles in humancommunication. The paper adopted a descriptive approach in the analysis. The data for this study isfrom secondary source which consists of observations and views by different authors. We noted thatelectronic technology as a major instrument of communication has positive as well as negativeeffects on the Nigerian youths. We recommend more of face-to-face interactions especially in thefamily level so as to promote family bonding. The youths should minimize the use of electronicdevices for only important and relevant issues. Finally, we also recommend a check on immoral andunethical activities by the youths online. Ethical principle should be maintained.