Responsible teenagers?

The continent generation | The Economist


Whilst many of us may see ourselves as teenagers living by the 'YOLO' motto, the reality for British teenagers detailed in this article seems to be the exact opposite. A wide range of findings have shown that teenagers are now far more responsible than their previous cohort (particularly those born before 1992). We now take less drugs, cause less teenage pregnancies, bunk school less frequently and are generally far more respectable in the eyes of society.

Part of this is caused by the economic downturn. With less money, teenagers are simply unable to afford the debauchery of drink and drugs on a regular basis. This has been especially evident in the fall in revenue for the nightclub industry. More importantly, many now opt to live with their families, due to their inability to finance an independent lifestyle. As the article mentions, it is 'far harder to be rebellious if you have no money and live in your childhood bedroom'.

Do you agree? As many of us edge closer towards life at university, we may picture ourselves as enjoying the best time of our lives. But a no holds barred lifestyle is becoming harder and harder to afford, and we could find ourselves becoming more concerned about our bank account than getting drunk at the nearest nightclub.