Growing number of those people standing silently in line at the automatic teller machine (ATM) or pumping their own self-service gas are probably victims of America’s silent, anonymous epidemic. They are shy-and the rapid technological and social changes rippling through America are increasing their numbers rapidly, says the world’s pioneering researcher into shyness… the increasing numbers of shy people mean Americans are lonelier, more alienated, and in worse shape, both mentally and physically. That is hardly a prescription for a healthy society. (Epstein A1)
Stanford university professor Philip G. Zimbardo places the blame for the rising tide of shyness on three factors. First, automation, as exemplified by ATMs and self-service gas pumps that take credit cards, “robs many of us of one more small opportunity for social contact.” Second, the revolution in personal computers and home electronic entertainment means couch potatoes and cyber-surfers have less reason for social interaction. “E-mail means you don’t have to talk to people, even over the telephone,” Zimbardo commented. Third, the changing nature of family life and rising fear of crime are shutting people off from each other. “You don’t see kids in the streets anymore. All play is organized for them, so they don’t develop the give-and –take and the leadership skills of the play ground,” he warned. With some 50 percent of marriages ending in divorce and with most parents working, children are robbed of the nurturing communication they once enjoyed with their parents and extended families. (qtd. In Epstein A10)