More Teens Text, Txtng VIP 2Teens, Says MRI

More teens are choosing texting over instant messaging as their preferred method of communication, according to the latest TeenMark study from Mediamark Research & Intelligence (MRI).

Some 57% of teenagers report they text messaged on their cell phones in the last 30 days, compared to 42% who instant messaged on a computer in the same time frame, according to the TeenMark study.

With affordable unlimited texting plans available from most cell phone carriers, it's easier than ever for teenagers to use their thumbs to communicate. The number of teens who text has increased 50% since 2007, vs. a 13% decline in the number of teens using instant messaging. Texting is now the #1 feature teens use on mobile cell phones, aside from making phone calls.

Not only are more teens texting, there is ample evidence that texting holds an important place in teens' lives. For instance, 78% of teens who text agree that "text messaging is an important part of my daily life." And, 75% of texting teens report they text while watching TV. The most common reason teens text is to communicate with friends and family. However, 1 in 5 texting teens also use texting to vote in contests, and 1 in 7 texting teens report they looked at an advertisement sent with a text message.

These findings from MRI's TeenMark study provide insight into the shifting digital socializing habits of teenagers," said Anne Marie Kelly, SVP, Marketing & Strategic Planning at MRI. "Texting via cell phone is a growing form of communication among teens and, therefore, a growing platform for advertisers. Many marketers now offer coupons, promotions and other marketing messages through texting. And TV shows like American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance have recognized the influence of teen texting by incorporating texting into their voting and communication methods."

MRI's TeenMark study captures data from more than 3,600 12-19 year old participants from households included in MRI's Survey of the American Consumer. The TeenMark 2009 study comprises data that were collected from April to August 2008 and from April to August 2009. In addition to product, media and demographic data, MRI's TeenMark offers a wealth of psychographic data covering topics such as beauty, finance, food, leisure, technology & lifestyles.