Playing on Your Phone When You Have Company

Nothing compares to friends enjoying each other’s company on a hot, sunny summer Saturday. They might ride off to a swimming hole, basking in the moment. Yet, this blissful scene could be disrupted if they stay within range of Wi-Fi or cell service, unable to fully disconnect and engage with those around them.

Sadly, even at a backyard barbecue, it’s likely that 70% of the time would be spent browsing social media or texting. We live in a world where being only half-present with those physically around us has become acceptable. Adults and teens alike are constantly tethered to their devices, interacting with the outside world. Perhaps it’s time for a lesson in Rudeness 101: using your phone in the presence of company is simply rude—and, frankly, obnoxious.

For many teens, who feel lost without their phones, even a visit from grandparents they haven’t seen in a year isn’t enough to put the device down. As soup is served, little Johnny Jr. might be sneaking glances at his phone, liking posts or waiting for it to buzz with messages from friends.

The Impact of Constant Connectivity

It’s one thing to use a phone to pass time alone at a subway station, in a restaurant, on a bus, or on a park bench. But it’s entirely different when you’re with others. Unfortunately, few seem to grasp this distinction. Next time you’re at a mall, movie theater, or restaurant, notice how many people are glued to their screens. While a toddler flings mashed potatoes, their parent might be giggling at a meme on social media.

Teenagers, the ultimate social butterflies, don’t disconnect even during sleepovers or parties. Neither do most adults. The cell phone has become a welcomed party crasher, allowing people to escape reality with a single tap.

The point is clear: too many people use their phones excessively in inappropriate settings. It’s conceivable that cell phones might one day be banned from certain venues due to their distracting nature. To clarify when phone use is inappropriate, here’s a guide from Professor’s House.

Rudeness 101: When NOT to Use Your Cell Phone

• When you have company or are a guest. If something urgent arises, excuse yourself briefly to handle the call or text, then return to socializing.
• In movie theaters, concerts, or quiet settings. This includes doctor’s office waiting rooms. No one wants to hear your conversation or the constant tapping of your phone—it’s rude.
• At checkouts or in lines. Pay attention to your surroundings when checking out at a register. Holding up strangers while you text or take a call is inconsiderate.
• At traffic lights or while driving. Texting in vehicles is illegal for a reason—it endangers everyone around you.
• During school, lectures, or meetings. Using your phone while you’re supposed to be listening is disrespectful. Schools have implemented phone rules because too many fail to see why it’s rude.
• During real conversations. Pausing a discussion with a friend, coworker, or family member to text or answer a call is incredibly rude, unless you’re awaiting critical news, like a loved one’s passing.
• When supervising your child. It’s not another parent’s job to watch your child at the playground, pool, or park because you’re engrossed in social media. If your child needs supervision, turn off the phone.
• At the dinner table. Enforce a no cell phones at the dinner table rule. The dinner table should be a place for family connection and conversation.
• In church. Rest assured, you won’t miss anything urgent from God during Sunday service—so put the phone away.

Where else do you find cell phone use rude? Do you have rules about phone use when company is over at your home?