Are We Living in Anti-Social Bubbles?

It has come to my attention, recently that when the words "online" and "family" are brought together, there is often much wincing… or judging, if not simply a strong opinion or specific perception. For example, this post by @maria0305... Judging by the number of comments, clearly, this is a popular topic.

I recently asked a similar-ish question on my Facebook page...

Do you have an issue/idea/hot topic concerning technology/social media/online stuffs that impact your family?

My friend Jessica responded,

Are you looking more for an idea about kids needing to get off their rears and play? Or more along the lines of everyone being anti-social in their own bubbles instead of sitting together as a family?

I think her question in reply to my question is a common one for many - myself included. The minute the topic of technology comes up… in comes the worry… The worry about whether we are exposing our children to too much screen time. Or like Jessica said, "… everyone being anti-social in their own bubbles instead of sitting together as a family."

It was the second part of her reply was the part that really hit me. We (mothers/families) have been struggling with the "go out and play" issues even before the days of computers. I would hear it all the time as a young girl. "Jennifer Jean! Go outside!!!" I just wanted to sit in the house and watch Facts of Life or Perry Mason. I LOVED Perry Mason. Don't be a hater.

I digress...

Are we becoming more isolated in our homes because of all the cool media tools we have at our fingertips? Is this issue of growing isolation a perception or reality? Is there growing distancing as we "plug-in"? Do you notice an anti-social bent developing in your family?

Jenny Ingram writes at Jenny On The Spot and wears glitter everyday. She also digresses over there on the Twitter @jennyonthespot.