Summary Of The Tethered Generation By Kathryn Tyler

Advances in technology have increased tremendously over the years. These advances give people more opportunities to interact with others on a level that was unknown before. Examples such as, email, IM, texting, and the ability to call others from anywhere there is a cell phone has signal. While there are many positives for technology, technology has negatives. Generation Y is the first generation to have the privileges to have computers or cell phones since they were a child. In “The Tethered Generation” by Kathryn Tyler, Tyler addresses the effects technology has had on Generation Y with their relationship with their parents, professors, and their co-workers. Tyler focuses on the use of the three appeal, ethos, pathos, and logos as methods

Tyler explains how cell phones and computers are changing the way the brain develops. She also goes into detail about how Generation Y is becoming more attached to their parents but how their parents are becoming attached to them. These parents are referred to as “helicopter parents”. Helicopter parents get involved in every step of their child’s lives instead of their children learning along the way. These parents try to be a part of the day to day lives of their children. Tyler then talks about the influence Generation Y has on the workplace. New ways are needed to be formed in order to prepare the workplace for this generation. Generation Y is highly proficient with technology and are changing and will continue to change to

Tyler uses these appeals to persuade the audience that the attachment between Generation Y and their helicopter parents need to be decreased or taken care of. The most effective appeal Tyler uses in this essay is logos. Tyler uses many sources and quotes from professionals that give supporting evidence to her main argument. The quote, “Scientists once believed the brain was almost completely formed by age 13. But, in the past two years, neuroscientist have discovered that parts of the brain… continue to develop well into the late teens and early 20s” evaluates the effects technology has on children (470). Tyler addresses that since the brain is not yet developed the need to rely on others is greater and those who need help tend to lean more on their parents. With parents helping their children more the parents will come more involved. Tyler uses stories from professors and businesses about how a parent will help their child with everything. A quote used from Toni McLawhorn, director of career services at Roanoke College, said, “Parents have called to set up interview appointments for their children. The students lose a sense of self-reliance” (471). Tyler also makes a list about how steps need to be taken to prepare the workplace for this generation and their helicopter parents. Tyler’s use of logos lets the reader understand how big