As I get off the bus and walk to my house, I watch children walk home from the nearby elementary school. I wonder why this is the only time I ever see these children. As they pass by, each with their eyes glued to either a cellular device, an iPod or an iPad, I quickly gather the reason. 

It wasn’t too long ago that I used to see their older brothers and sisters riding their bikes, playing hopscotch, and covering the sidewalks with colorful chalk every day. Now, I see children walking home, where they will remain for the rest of the day, not even getting a good look at their faces as they are tilted down looking into their devices.

With 29 percent of Iowa’s population being obese, obviously kids need to keep off the technology and hit the sidewalk.

Not only have technology and social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr been negatively affecting my generation by causing social deformities including anti-socialism, addiction, and even depression these mediums are continuously working their ways to future generations as they are constantly and rapidly advance.

And Iowa is now the 18th fattest state in the nation, up from its previous 20th place, according to data from the Center for Disease Control.

People may think they are being "entertained" by constantly checking their social networks, but what they may not know is the excessive and addictive use many people have developed to their Facebook, Twitters and Tumblrs has actually decreased the amount of time they spend with their family, friends, and loved ones in a real life environment rather than a virtual one.

Additionally, excessive use may impair ones ability to communicate with others properly in a real life setting rather than in the world of social networks where they may feel more comfortable communicating with others.

Finally and most importantly, it may decrease the time one could have spent on more beneficial priorities such as health, knowledge, and natural recreational activities including studying, exercising, enjoying a picnic or a walk in the park, or even getting the recommended amount of sleep. 

However, if not used for the right reasons or if used excessively, I believe they have a strong threat to society as they are very capable of corrupting people’s social skills, health, and relationships with others.