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The Trend Trap

High school culture of over consumerism
The Trend Trap

From fashion to technology, there’s constant pressure to keep up. While it may seem fun and exciting, this cycle is often driven by over consumerism—the tendency to buy more than needed, often influenced by social media and peer pressure.

Over Consumerism happens when people, including teenagers, buy more products than necessary or replace items frequently even if they are still in good condition. This behavior is fueled by companies and influencers pushing the latest trends. A major driver of over consumerism among high school students is social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube encourage the consumption of unnecessary goods and advertise products that users seem interested in. Videos like fashion and makeup hauls, thousands of different skin care products and all the various ways one can decorate a Stanley cup are just a few examples of overconsumption in online trends.

One of the biggest areas affected by over consumerism is fashion. High school students often feel the need to wear the latest styles to fit in. Fast fashion brands like Shein, Zara and Temu can quickly produce affordable clothing, but this comes with a hidden cost. These brands constantly release new styles, making older clothes feel “out of date” even after just a few months. This creates a cycle where students buy new clothes not because they need them, but because they feel pressured to stay trendy. Beyond the personal impact, over consumerism has significant environmental consequences. Fast fashion, for example, produces a large amount of waste and pollution. It takes enormous amounts of water and energy to produce clothing, and when it’s discarded after only a few wears, it ends up in landfills. Similarly, the constant upgrading of electronics contributes to e-waste, as old devices often aren’t recycled properly.

While it can be hard to resist the pressure of over consumerism, there are ways to break the cycle. One way is to focus on quality over quantity—choose durable items that last longer rather than constantly buying new ones. Another is embracing sustainable fashion, like shopping at thrift stores or wearing old clothes. Keep a list of wants and needs, shop second-hand first then decide if this product really is a need. Reducing time on social media can also help reduce the pressure to overconsume.

While it’s fun to follow trends and stay current, high school students need to be aware of the impact over consumerism has on both themselves and the environment. Making more conscious choices about what we buy and why can lead to healthier habits and a more sustainable future.

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