阅读理解.
Technology has utterly transformed our ability to communicate with each other. Linking
to each other both literally and figuratively, many of us connect through cell phones, email,
instant messaging, blogs, and networking web sites, yet we may be less connected to each
other than we think.
According to a study, Americans are becoming increasingly socially isolated. The study
reveals, for example, that one quarter of Americans say that they have no one to discuss
important personal issues with, and that the number of close friends that American have has
dropped from three to two. Meanwhile, the Boston Globe reports that this spreading
isolation is experienced more sharply among those with less education, people of color,
and older Americans. Unsurprisingly, those who are young, white, and well educated tend
to have stronger social networks.
From my own experience I have to say that I've never felt more connected, thanks to
a web of friends, family, and colleagues. One of my closest friends is someone I met
through an online discussion group who lives hundreds of miles away from me. We have
met face-to-face only twice, yet our regular electronic correspondence and cell phone
calls maintain our close friendship. And, speaking of blogging, my blog has introduced me
to people I would never have met otherwise and has led to enduring and important
friendships.
On the other hand, I recently saw a scene unfold that proved to me how deeply
disconnected we as Americans have become. I had just wrapped up a presentation on
mediation at a family therapy (治疗) center.
As I was leaving, I noticed a mother and her teenage son who had just completed
their session with their family therapist (临床医学家). After making their next
appointment, they both took out their cell phones, placed calls, and began loud
conversations with whoever was on the other end. I walked out behind them to the
parking lot to my car. They both jumped into their SUV, and, as I saw them drive off,
they were still talking on their cell phones.
But, alas, not to each other.
1. What does the passage lead you to believe?
A. Americans are more socially connected today.
B. Americans are more socially isolated today.
C. Technology plays a bigger role in American society.
D. Americans don't make good use of technology.
2. Which of the following has nothing to do with the isolation among Americans?
A. Age.
B. Education.
C. Skin color.
D. Sex.
3. What is true about the mother and son in the passage?
A. They came for therapy in the same car.
B. They were quite close to each other.
C. There was not much communication between them.
D. They preferred talking to each other on cell phones.
4. The author probably feels ______ with the mother and son.
A. puzzled
B. disappointed
C. amused
D. surprised
