Article
Details
Citation
Sweeting H, Hunt K & Bhaskar A (2012) Consumerism and well-being in early adolescence. Journal of Youth Studies, 15 (6), pp. 802-820. https://doi.org/10.1080/13676261.2012.685706
Abstract
It has been suggested that consumerism is negatively related to well-being in children and adolescents, as well as adults. Few studies have explored whether certain aspects of consumerism have stronger associations with well-being than others, or between-group differences in associations. This article uses data from a sample of early adolescents to examine: levels of consumerism; relationships between different aspects of consumerism and well-being; and differences according to gender, school year group and family affluence. Data were obtained in 2010 via secondary school pupil surveys (N = 2934). Consumerism measures comprised number of 'standard' and 'premium' possessions and four dimensions of consumer involvement; well-being measures comprised self-esteem, psychological distress and anger. There was evidence of high penetration of consumerist values. There were positive associations between number of possessions and anger, and between 'dissatisfaction' and poorer well-being, regardless of how measured. 'Brand awareness' was associated with positive male well-being, but negative female well-being. Many relationships between consumerism and well-being were stronger than those between family affluence and well-being. These results suggest only certain aspects of consumerism are associated with poorer adolescent well-being. Although, for some sub-groups, other aspects might be associated with better well-being, there was no evidence that modern consumer goods promote happiness. ? 2012 Taylor & Francis.
Journal
Journal of Youth Studies: Volume 15, Issue 6
Status | Published |
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Publication date | 31/12/2012 |
ISSN | 1367-6261 |
eISSN | 1469-9680 |
People (1)
Professor, Institute for Social Marketing