Chapter 2 Families and Parents 47
Technological
Technology involves using scientific
knowledge for practical purposes.
Technology is created in the search for new
ways to improve life. Inventing new devices
or improving current ones can make tasks
easier or faster. In years past, technological
advancements included the invention of the
lightbulb and the airplane. Think of ways
new technologies benefit family life as you
read the following.
Home Technology
Most people depend on electricity
and heating and cooling systems in their
homes. Telephones, cell phones, cable TV or
satellite dishes, Internet service, and home
entertainment centers are also common.
Home appliances speed up cooking,
cleaning, and other household tasks that
once took a great deal of time. These
appliances make it easier for families to
manage their homes. New materials for the
home, such as stain-resistant upholstery and
unbreakable dishes, are also the result of
technology. Think how each of the following
has made family life easier: refrigerators,
ranges, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners,
trash compactors, and lawn mowers. These
timesaving devices also allow families to
spend more leisure time together.
Technology also provides security
systems that can make homes, businesses,
and cars safer. Smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors and home security systems also
increase a family’s safety. Television and
radio stations monitor weather and issue
warnings directly to homes.
Computer Technology
Advancements in computer technology
have revolutionized the communication
process. Computers can provide access to
the Internet. Via the Internet, families keep
in touch with e-mail. Internet access also
allows families to use timesaving online
services, such as banking and shopping, 2-16.
Inventions such as cellular phones, pagers,
voice mail, and fax machines also make it
easier for family members to stay in touch
despite their busy schedules.
Health Technology
Health care technology enables doctors
and other health care providers to enrich,
lengthen, and even save lives. Advancements
in laser surgery, organ transplants, and
diagnostic equipment provide new hope for
people with diseases or injuries. Today people
live longer, which means family members can
spend more time with older relatives.
Drawbacks of Technology
Technology has many benefits for
families. It can also have drawbacks. Families
can invest in the technology they want
and can afford, but they should be careful.
Relying too heavily on technology can make
families dependent upon it. When families
adjust to technology, they may find it harder
to adapt if it becomes unavailable.
The newest trends in technology can be
costly. This means technology may not be
equally available to everyone because not
everyone can afford it. When use of a certain
technology is commonplace, people who don’t
have access to the technology are left behind.
2-16 Computer technology helps families
separated by distance maintain communication.