The youth of the 1920s were known for their flamboyant attire, distinct language, and unconventional conduct. They were seen as rebellious, materialistic, and disrespectful during the Jazz Age. This portrayal can be applied to contemporary young people or any generation’s youth. Over time, young individuals have consistently idolized celebrities and held them in high regard. They take pleasure in watching films, playing video games, and aspire to replicate the hairstyles, makeup, and fashion choices of these popular figures.
Contemporary youth culture is heavily influenced by anime, with teenagers imitating their favorite characters through actions such as dyeing their hair black, wearing bold makeup, dressing in dark attire, and painting their fingernails black. Additionally, divorce rates have seen a significant rise since the 1920s. Currently, the divorce rate exceeds 50%, surpassing previous records. Research conducted among college students in the 1920s found that this younger demographic believed that if their marriage did not meet expectations, it should be resolved through divorce.
In contemporary society, the perception that marriage can be easily discarded has resulted in a considerable number of children being raised by either two sets of parents or single parents. This pattern is not novel; as early as the 1920s, American families were criticized for contributing to the deterioration of younger generations. Even today, many elderly individuals maintain this perspective and attribute teenagers’ reckless conduct to fractured families. They argue that when children are constantly moving between households or left unsupervised because their single parents work, they lack adequate supervision.
The younger generation, as described by The Literary Digest, and today’s youth both require parental authority. This viewpoint is widely agreed upon by adults. While the youth in the 1920s had access to movies, newspapers, and other sources of media, today’s society offers a plethora of media forms, making information and influences much more easily accessible.
The internet has a significant impact on today’s youth, exposing them to role models that parents may not be aware of. Teenagers can easily find information and access uncensored photos and videos games without appropriate ratings, which may involve violent or unsavory characters. Therefore, it is crucial for parents to monitor and discuss these influences with their children to prevent them from choosing dangerous role models.
