Exploring the topic of youth culture last night at the youth course I’m doing, and a few interesting points were brought up that brought things home to me abit. We analysed a number of teen magazines, and the main content and lifestyle they were promoting. The basic attitude is that if it feels good, do it; and its all about satisfying yourself, adopting a self-centered lifestyle, and living for the moment. And the worrying aspect of this is that young people seeking answers for matters they face in their teenage years such as sexuality, relationships and such like are being educated on these life issues by the glossy magazines. The magazines exploit the vulnerabilities of the teen market, and their curiosities in regards to their sexuality, to make a quick buck. The post-modern mindset pushes the please yourself attitude, and to hell with the consequences.
The significance of this is that the church has to be addressing these issues from a Christian perspective, presenting a sub-culture that goes against this current mindset, and basically being open, honest and real with the teens, helping them in the struggles they face.