The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Don’t paint today’s teens with broad brush
Remember when you were a teen? Maybe it was not too long ago. On the other hand, it may seem like light years away. In any case, so much has changed since you were a teenager, hasn’t it?
Go back and try to envision your life back then. Could you have imagined in your wildest dreams that teens would one day be carrying around a computer in their pocket? You probably couldn’t have. What’s more, picturing teens in the future posting messages that could be immediately received across the world would have been unimaginable.
Today’s teens have grown up on technology. It is second nature to them. Many roll their eyes upon hearing things like “when I was your age.” For them, it is unthinkable not to have a cellphone or laptop. The positive thing about their attachment to technology is that they are skilled in imagining what is possible. Many navigate applications much faster than adults. The downside, of course, is that very attachment to technology. It tends to breed instant gratification and impatience.
It can be easy to pigeonhole today’s teens. You have to be careful not to make sweeping generalizations. Recently, we were walking by a lake and were pleasantly surprised at what we encountered. Dozens of teen volunteers were picking up trash and debris.
They were making a huge impact on the recreational area. When asked what was motivating them, several chimed in that they care about the environment. Another quipped, “If we don’t do it, who else is really going to?” Further pleasing was the diverse makeup of these young volunteers.
When you consider teens, you have to keep an open mind. Many care deeply. They are no more homogeneous than previous generations of teenagers. Giving kudos to them can give them encouragement. And don’t we all need encouragement?
Joyful Daily is a regular column that offers ideas for improving mindfulness and actively seeking joy every day. The column publishes weekdays online and Mondays through Thursdays and Saturdays in the Living section. Angela Buttimer and Dennis Buttimer are psychology experts and the founders of Atlanta Center for Mindfulness and Well-Being. Learn more about their work at pathtobestself.com. Send questions or comments about Joyful Daily to joyfuldailyajc@gmail.com.