Challenges Faced by Youth in the 21st Century

As the world is progressing and life is becoming more complex, difficulties faced by individuals are striking their maximum. Adults can face these difficulties, though not at all. Adults have more coping capacities than youth- Putting such pressures on young minds can sometimes be fatal. Are challenges the same as difficulties or are challenges even more threatening than difficulties?

The challenge is defined as “to arouse or stimulate, especially by presenting with difficulties.”

Challenges Faced by Youth In The 21st Century

Some of the challenges faced by youth in the 21st century are-

1. Negative Addiction- Youth may get addicted to smoking, alcohol drugs, pornography, etc. Since people at this age want to experiment, they try many new things. Once they fall into addiction, they may find it difficult to return. A person under the influence of pornography may find it hard to avoid watching it. Pornography, alcohol-drugs & smoking harm the individual.

2. Feelings of Misunderstanding & Negligence by Elders - Due to the generation gap between youth & parents, the youth may feel that no one understands them. A negligent parenting style can also be a challenge. If parents behave negligently with the youth, the youth may sway away very easily.

3. Violence & Crime - Some youth may drop out of school to earn for their families. As a result, some may get into earning money through crimes. Youths may grow violent as they enter this stage. Their violence is often more violent in colleges.

4. Unemployment - This is the major problem. The literacy rate among youth is increasing, but many youths stay unemployed. This is not because there aren’t enough job vacancies, but because many youths lack skills. Skill development is very important.

5. Materialism - Youth love the materialistic world. They always love to make themselves look good. Fashion is what youth focus on. They prefer wearing expensive clothes and use expensive & good-looking watches, phones, etc. A materialistic world is what many youths are into.

6. Technology & Social Media- Youth these days are addicted to social media. TikTok videos, youtube, and Instagram are what many youths are into. Youths prefer to have many social media followers. Technology has become part and center of youth life.

7. Lack of Role Models - Lacking role models might be a big problem. Having a role model helps one to follow in their footsteps and have a well-defined path. So if one doesn’t have a role model it can be difficult for them to follow a particular path.

8. Unhealthy Food Habits - Youth love eating foods such as chips, fast food items, aerated drinks, etc. This can pose a serious threat to their health.

These are just a few challenges, but as years pass by youth confrontation with more & more challenges is increasing which is increasing their risk of mental, physical, and emotional health problems.

Written by Claton Suares Borges