Graphophobia Among Youths: A Way Forward -By Isaac Asabor

There is little dispute that young Nigerians now exist in a world dominated by media. From television and films to music, advertising, gaming and the endless networks of social media, their daily experiences are shaped by constant digital engagement. In today’s reality, much of this interaction takes place through handheld devices that rarely leave their grasp.

This observation is not a blanket condemnation of media content. However, growing evidence suggests that excessive immersion in digital platforms often leaves insufficient time for serious academic engagement, especially the cultivation of sustained reading habits and competent writing skills.

An imbalance has emerged between social media enthusiasm and academic performance. One of the most visible consequences of this imbalance is the noticeable decline in writing proficiency among many youths. Some have developed what may aptly be described as a psychological aversion to writing; graphophobia, meaning simply a fear or deep dislike of writing.

It may sound surprising, yet many young people today struggle with tasks as basic as composing a short job application letter. This development is deeply troubling, particularly when society continues to describe them as the “leaders of tomorrow.”

For any aspiring leader, the ability to read critically, write clearly and speak effectively forms the foundation upon which intellect, learning capacity and public credibility are measured. Communication is not merely a tool of leadership; it is a reflection of identity and competence. Writing, in particular, sharpens reasoning and equips individuals with the capacity to participate meaningfully in democratic life.

Consider the implications when a public figure cannot respond intelligently to simple factual questions or resorts to inappropriate expressions in formal settings. Such scenarios highlight the urgency for youths to cultivate reading, writing and speaking as interconnected skills that reinforce one another.

Older generations place considerable hope in the youths who will soon assume positions of responsibility. Many young people are already striving toward leadership and, in numerous cases, are surpassing the achievements of their predecessors. This progress is encouraging, echoing the wisdom that a child who exceeds the accomplishments of his parents is a blessing fulfilled.

The pressing question, therefore, is how young people can strengthen their writing ability and avoid the trap of graphophobia. Several practical steps present themselves.

To begin with, youths must accept that every meaningful pursuit carries its own difficulties. Writing is no exception. Frustration is an inevitable companion in the creative process, and resilience is essential.

One common obstacle is the struggle to generate ideas or even craft an appropriate title. Many writers encounter moments when words simply refuse to come. This condition, often described as writer’s block, can make it difficult to begin a piece or refine an existing one.

While discouraging, such moments need not be permanent. Inspiration often emerges through patience, reflection and faith in one’s creative capacity. Rather than surrendering to frustration, writers must persevere until clarity returns.

It is not unusual for outsiders to advise writers to abandon difficult topics or redirect their energies elsewhere. Such counsel, though often well-intentioned, misunderstands the temperament of a writer. Writing is not merely an activity; it is a disposition.

Writers tend to observe what others overlook. They carry ideas everywhere, on the streets, at home, in transit, even in the stillness of night. Thoughts emerge unexpectedly, demanding to be recorded. For many writers, meaningful work begins in quiet reflection long before words appear on paper. A compelling article is first formed in the mind before it is expressed in written form.

The writer’s purpose is rarely self-serving. Writing often seeks to illuminate social problems, challenge wrongdoing and provoke constructive dialogue. Yet paradoxically, writers are sometimes misunderstood or criticized by those who feel targeted, even when no individual is named.

Criticism, misinterpretation and social pressure can discourage many young people from writing. However, perhaps the greatest source of frustration is rejection. Not every submission is published. Many articles never progress beyond the editor’s desk.

This reality should not discourage aspiring writers. Rather, it should inspire greater diligence and commitment. Editors operate under professional standards shaped by experience, training and an understanding of public interest. Their role includes assessing relevance, clarity, timing and legal implications. Rejection, therefore, should be viewed as an opportunity for improvement rather than a verdict of failure.

Even globally celebrated writers encountered repeated rejection before gaining recognition. Persistence, not immediate success, defines the writer’s journey.

When one article fails to appear in print, the committed writer simply returns to the desk and engages another issue of public concern. This is as writing becomes a personal contribution to national development, a way of participating in civic discourse outside formal political office.

For many writers, the act itself is indispensable. Writing demands affection for the craft, steadfast determination, patience and enduring passion. Without these qualities, discouragement easily breeds avoidance.

Academic qualifications alone do not produce effective writers. Just as advanced musical training does not automatically result in popular compositions, academic credentials in literary studies do not guarantee impactful writing. Natural inclination plays a role, but education, mentorship and disciplined practice refine that innate potential.

If the principles discussed here are embraced, young people need not develop an aversion to writing. Instead, they can approach it as a vital tool for personal growth and leadership development. Those who aspire to lead must communicate with clarity and confidence, avoiding the embarrassment of poor expression and grammatical inadequacy.

Ultimately, progress in writing begins with a simple mindset: waiting for perfection prevents action. Margaret Atwood, renowned Canadian author, poet, and activist recognized for her significant contributions to literature over six decades, most notably the dystopian novel in her advice on the foregoing said, “If I waited for perfection, I would never write a word”. Her advice to existing and potential writers clearly explains the foregoing view.  Improvement comes through practice, persistence and the courage to put words on paper.