As the name suggests, affluenza is fittingly termed to demonstrate its likeness to both affluence and the flu. This relatively new portmanteau, gained recognition from last years drunk-driving trial of Texan teen, Ethan Couch. The then 16 year old was found to be under the influence, with an astonishing blood alcohol content of 0.24 (three times the legal limit). Despite his recklessness- which lead to the death of four people and the devastating injury of two- Couch was only granted 10 months of probation.
Dictionary.com describes Affluenza as a social disease caused by rampant materialism and consumerism. Americans have been targeted as the major hosts of this problem. Considered a people hinged on an endless pursuit to keep up with the Joneses, affluenza is the reperrcussion of a society that esteems financial wealth as the sole pinnacle of success. Media outlets grossly display how much our pride and ideas of fulfillment rest on the accummulation of posessions. Capitalism and concepts centered on “more-is more,” are not new to Americanized society. What is new, is the idea that this notion can somehow be used in defenese of wreckless behavior.
Several headlines perpetuated Couch as a product of wealthy parents who failed to set limits on his behaviors. Couch’s defense psychologist sited affluenza as the precursor to the teens devastating actions. Since then, many have speculated whether or not this is a real condition. While affluenza is not a listed affliction in the American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5, there is widespread debate that considers one’s limitless upbringing as a defense to vile actions. CNN’s interview with psychologist Mary Gresham revealed that the diagnostic issues with these individuals comes to down to a lack of impulse control. She stated that, as a result of their fortune, these children have abundant resources to actively engage in their impulsive behaviors. Because of their parent’s financial means, they are granted access to powerful vehicles, drug paraphernalia and alcohol. Having witnessed the capabilities money has to almost absolve consequences, affluent teens may be cultured to view limits disparagingly.
The day that we openly consider affluence as an infliction that renders and/or excuses reckless behaviors, is the moment we must also revisit the impact an arduous life has on impoverished teens. The nonsensical discrepancies displayed among those of a select ethnicity and/or socioeconimic background in American prisons is unconscionable. The judicial system, and those favored to uphold it, cannot continue to sustain the impression that wealth or race can influence a fair and equal outcome for all defendants. What is the message that has been sent to a teenager deemed to be a victim of his own upbringing? What does he stand to learn, when it appears his resources have once more made his limits appear endless?
Formula
Do not be a slave to the materials you have or hope to obtain.
Every parent strives to provide the best for their children. After all, a staple of a good parent is one who strives to make a better life for their offspring. Regardless of ones financial stature, parenting is so much more than providing a cushioned, need-free life. Good parenting requires discipline. We do no one a favor when we neglect to set limits for a child. Coddled children who have lead limitless lives inevitably grow into adolescents who learn to evade the consequences of their actions. It is not money, nor is it the provision of a want-free life that births reckless teens. It is a lack of discipline and insufficient parenting. Parents who oppose consequences upon their children, encourage dangerous carefree thinking.
As it pertains to concepts of affluenza, this is a societal branding that in more ways than one, imposes itself on our lifestyle. Even if our intentions are not to spoil our children, as parents we too find ourselves succumbing to societal pressures. For example, if all your child’s friends have an X-box® console, it seems implausible not to reward him/her with one when you know you have the financial means to do so. After all, you don’t want them to be the uncool child who no one wants to have sleepovers with. Succumbing to such pressures does not however, mean that limits cannot be set. Those who rid themselves of the “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality are better equipped to take on the struggles of this world. They have a greater concept of what matters most, and are not tied to the constraints of bigger-better-best.
Consumerism impacts us all. First we had an analog television set, then we wanted a flat screen. We then had to get a plasma. Soon after we traded that in for an LCD, but then we had to have the display of an LED. A few years passed and it simply wasn’t enough to watch Netflix® on anything other than a SmartTV. We have tons of purses, jewelry, and shoes. Some, that stun us with an appearance some 4 months after we’ve forgotten we even had them. We live mortgage broke and use credit cards to sustain our sleek, envious appearance. Reminding ourselves of what is important and coming to terms with how valueless, valuable things are, is the best initial means of changing our thinking.
What are your thoughts of Affluenza? Is it real?
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