Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Youth: Live Free, Buy Everything??

    


      Responsible consumers and the term teenagers should never be used in the same sentence. Most teenagers do not have the knowledge or the drive to spend or consume properly which leads to many of them overbuying things that they really do not need. In todays’ society majority of teenagers are very intrigued by the fashion that is shown on the bodies of many celebrities and on the cover of magazines. With image being everything, a lot of teenagers will decide to spend their last penny just to achieve a certain look or get the latest shoes. Not caring or thinking about their future such as saving for a car or an education; teenagers are more likely to live in the moment and on impulse which causes them to buy the first thing they see instead of thinking things through. Another important factor that plays into teenagers not being responsible consumers, relates to, in opinion, the amount of bullying being portrayed today. So many children and teenagers are being bullied for not looking or dressing a certain way; therefore, a child who is desperately trying to fit in will go beyond measures just to alter their appearance. Children/teenagers are being robbed and killed all over the world because of the impact fashion has on their minds and their desire to look like their favorite celebrity; therefore, I feel that society should instill other values and goals instead of making one feel bad if their appearance is not up to society standards or the things they own is not up to par. Having long term values and saving your money instead of trying to consume everything you see, it is something a lot of teenagers do not portray until they get the mindset of growing and owning their own items that is worth more than all the clothes and shoes money can buy.

      ~Lady Zandra 




      Stating that the majority of teenagers are not responsible consumers without any evidence other than personal experience and a colorful opinion is a gross generalization and lack of research. Consumer is defined by one dictionary as a person who purchases goods and services for personal use. As stated in the previous post, todays’ teenagers are fascinated with pop culture and you know what they say: imitation is the best form of flattery. Todays’ youth spends, spends, and spends some more in an effort to be trendy or fit in. They strive to be different all the while by looking the same; despite their lack of uniqueness. Todays’ teenagers are impulsive buyers. While impulsive and responsible are normally compatible words, in terms of teenagers and consumers, I think it fits perfectly. Teenagers have no bills. Their parents take care of them. So the mindless spending on fashion and fast food is the only thing their money can really be spent on. The important fact is that the money is being put back into the economy. The $300 spent on True Religions jeans may seem idiotic; however, responsible consumerism refers to the role that consumers play in helping society to be more sustainable. So one must consider that someone must buy those overpriced jeans to keep the True Religion employees employed. 

      ~Lady Shabreka


No comments:

Post a Comment