How Do Young People Influence Changing Norms in Society?

Young people have a special role when it comes to changing the way society thinks and acts. They can spark change, but they also face many challenges that make it hard for them to have a positive impact.

Understanding Norms and Values

Societal norms are the unspoken rules that tell us how to behave in our communities. They shape our expectations of how people should act.

Values are the strong beliefs that support these norms. For example, values like respect, honesty, and fairness help shape norms like being polite, truthful, and welcoming to everyone.

The problem is that these norms and values can be very rigid. This means they don’t easily change, even when new ideas come up.

Challenges Young People Face

1. Lack of Authority:

   • Young people often don’t have power or influence. Adults in charge can ignore what they say. This can be really frustrating and can make young people feel like they can’t make a difference.

2. Systemic Barriers:

   • The systems around them, like schools and family rules, often stick to old ways that clash with the new values young people hold. For example, many young people care about caring for the environment, but school practices might not support these ideas, leaving them feeling disconnected.

3. Peer Pressure:

   • Teens often feel pressure from their friends to act a certain way instead of standing up for what they believe in. Wanting to fit in can stop them from expressing their true thoughts and can make it harder for them to take action.

4. Digital Influences:

   • Social media can be a mixed bag. Young people can use it to share their views and connect with others for change. But they also encounter false information and negative influences that can reinforce harmful beliefs.

Possible Solutions

Even with these challenges, young people can still have a big impact on societal norms:

1. Empowerment through Education:

   • Schools can create spaces for important discussions about current issues. By teaching topics like social justice, environmental care, and mental health, young people can learn more and feel confident to speak up.

2. Creating Safe Spaces:

   • Setting up groups or clubs where young people can share their thoughts without fear of judgment can help everyone feel supported. This encouragement can empower them to challenge existing norms.

3. Working with Adults:

   • Building relationships with mentors, teachers, and community leaders can help young people connect with those in power. When they work together, they can push for changes that challenge old ideas and make their voices heard.

4. Using Digital Tools Wisely:

   • Young people can use the internet to share positive stories and connect with others for change. Learning how to tell credible sources from false ones can help them avoid getting misled.

In conclusion, while young people face many challenges in trying to change societal norms, with the right support and teamwork, they can make a real difference. By tackling these issues with smart solutions, they can become strong forces for change in society.