Technophobia

It really exists. Google it. Technophobia. And if it's on the internet it must be true. Freudian psychotherapists say that fears can often be traced to experiences in childhood or something your mother subjected you to. In my case it was both.

My high school's first "computer" course, which was really just glorified typing and limited word processing, was taught by my mom. Somehow, despite her generational disadvantages, she was gifted in all things technological. I, on the other hand, was not so fortunate.

Still, the verdict was still out. I could still master this technology thing. My Freshman year of college I was forced to take Computer Applications I and II. How hard could this be? Has anyone out there ever heard of Quattro Pro or Lotus? Basically, you had to be a computer programmer to run those systems. Not intuitive at all. Ok, verdict in- I am a technophobic.

Despite the unflattering self-diagnosis, I have actually been forced to work extensively with computers in the years post undergrad. Technology and I have come to an understanding. Technology has become much more intuitive in recent years and I have become proficient at figuring out some way to get tasks completed using Word, Excel, etc. provided that I am allowed to take 2 to 3 times longer than it would take anyone born a decade after me.