ITV GMB’s Susanna Reid Says ‘They Don’t Talk to Each Other’ as She Makes Family Confession

Susanna Reid Highlights How ‘They Don’t Talk to Each Other’ in Modern Families

Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid recently opened up about a surprising family communication habit during a lively discussion on the show. The ITV star confessed that even within her own household, family members rarely speak to each other directly on the phone. Instead, they rely heavily on texting and digital messaging apps to communicate, even when they are just a few rooms apart.

This candid admission came as the show explored a UK college’s innovative program designed to help teenagers improve their verbal communication skills, particularly in making phone calls. The initiative aims to equip young people with the confidence and know-how to handle phone conversations—a skill that many are losing in the digital age.

Susanna’s remarks struck a chord with viewers and co-hosts alike, sparking a broader conversation about how modern technology has reshaped the way families and friends interact. Her statement, “they don’t talk to each other,” encapsulates a growing trend where face-to-face and voice communication is being replaced by texts, emails, and instant messaging.

The Growing Reliance on Digital Communication Among Teens

The discussion began when Susanna referenced a UK college that has started offering tutoring sessions focused on teaching students how to make phone calls. This move comes in response to observations that many teenagers today find verbal communication over the phone intimidating or outdated.

Susanna explained, “Everything is online! People tend to email, text or WhatsApp. They don’t speak to each other on the phone.” This shift towards digital communication methods is not just a minor change but a fundamental transformation in how younger generations connect with one another.

Andrew Pierce, a co-host on Good Morning Britain, added humorously, “They don’t speak to each other at all! You hear stories about children in the same household texting each other in the same house! The world has gone mad.” Susanna laughed and admitted, “I’m afraid I’m guilty of that!” revealing that she herself uses texts to call her children to dinner even when they are at home.

This phenomenon highlights how deeply ingrained digital communication has become, even in situations where traditional phone calls or face-to-face conversations would seem more natural.

Why Teaching Phone Skills Matters in Today’s Digital Age

Despite some skepticism around the idea of tutors teaching phone etiquette, Susanna strongly supports such initiatives. She pointed out that phone calls can be surprisingly complex, especially when navigating automated systems and reaching the right department or person.

“Actually, if you are used to online, or even face-to-face, because, as you say, teens definitely talk to each other face-to-face loudly on trains. I remember doing it myself, so let’s not look down our noses at it,” she said. Susanna emphasized that making phone calls can be intimidating and complicated, making training in this area a valuable life skill.

Kevin Maguire, another guest on the show, agreed with this perspective. He noted that many teenagers lack proficiency not only in verbal communication but also in keyboard skills. He argued that if these essential skills aren’t taught at home, it’s beneficial for educational institutions to step in and fill the gap.

Maguire added, “If people at home haven’t taught them for whatever reason, then I think it’s good a college is doing it. I know we can mock it, and I raise my eyebrows a little too, but it’s when you stop and think about it, it makes sense.”

Richard Madeley contributed to the conversation by sharing poll results showing that a significant portion of young adults—around a quarter of 18- to 34-year-olds—experience anxiety when answering phone calls. Susanna humorously remarked, “Particularly if it’s their mum, I’ve noticed!”

Conclusion: Embracing New Communication Skills for Family and Work Life

Susanna Reid’s family confession sheds light on a broader societal shift in communication habits, where digital messaging often replaces direct verbal interaction—even within the same household. As families and young people become more reliant on texting and online platforms, the importance of teaching traditional phone skills grows.

Initiatives like the UK college’s tutoring program are a positive step toward ensuring that teens develop the confidence and ability to communicate effectively in all forms—whether face-to-face, online, or over the phone. These skills are essential not only for personal relationships but also for professional life.

If you want to improve your communication skills or help your family bridge the digital divide, consider exploring courses or workshops focused on verbal communication. Don’t let modern technology create barriers—embrace the full spectrum of communication to stay connected.

For more insights and updates on communication trends, stay tuned to Good Morning Britain weekdays on ITV from 6am.