Individualism and Loaded

The annual youth report from GfK NOP describes how young Americans are embracing individualism and also have a lot more money to spend.  It makes for interesting reading:

• 55% of today’s youth saying they have their own way of doing things and are comfortable with and cling fiercely to their individuality;
• 43% of teens and tweens agree that they are unafraid to do things their peers say is "uncool";
• 18% of kids in 2005 would rather be a famous actor or actress, compared to 27% just three years ago;
• nearly two-thirds (62%) of 8- to 17-year-olds find technology exciting;
• nearly one-third (30%) of 8- to 17-year-olds say they are involved in making family purchase decisions, up four percentage points from last year;
• CDs and video games make up a combined 29% of teen spending;

Press release link.

Related link: Phatgnat post / essay – Individual Cult