Prom: A time associated with fancy clothes, dancing, and parties. While many consider prom to be a simple, fun, and harmless celebration of one’s teenage years, there are others find it to be a pointless tradition.
One major problem with prom is the ridiculous amount of spending that goes on each year. The national average for prom spending this year is about $1,100 (up 5% from last year). Given that prom lasts one night, and that most high school seniors are saving for college or adult life, the exorbitant average spending of prom is problematic. Even worse, the average spending for those with incomes under $50,000 per year is closer to $1,200.
Some would argue that the memories formed while at prom are worth spending the money. This is obviously a matter of taste, but it’s hard to imagine that memories of a single night of dancing and socializing could really be worth the associated costs. This also reflects a disturbingly materialistic concept of socialization. Is it really necessary that we dress up in excessive displays of extravagant formality simply in order to form good memories of senior year?
With this in mind, we would do well to examine the real motivations behind prom. It isn’t about forming good memories of senior year or spending time with friends. If that were true, we’d all forego the limos and photographers and instead just have a nice time with our friends. Instead, it seems to be driven by overwhelming social pressure to participate in the wanton consumption and an infantile desire to indulge in the trimmings and trappings of adulthood.
Perhaps it is time to consider breaking the prom tradition. Instead of automatically parading around in fancy dresses and tuxedos, we should consider what is the true source of our friendships and good memories. If it is glitzy clothing and dancing, by all means, go to prom.