In this day and age, teenagers seem to care less and less about things, whether that be school aspects or relationships. The phrase “hook up culture” was birthed during this generation, which highlights the carelessness teenagers have in forming important relationships with each other, and actually showing that you care. People have created the idea that not caring is “cool” when it actually reflects poorly on one’s character. It is important to care for life because it shows a set of morals, and it leads to a more positive outlook on life.

This lack of caring is most evident for teenagers in school. Although it is important to keep a balanced social life and school life, kids these days are failing multiple classes without a care in the world. Grades do not define a student’s intelligence, but they are a good measure of their work ethic. Being able to care enough to keep on track with assignments and put in the effort to do good on tests and homework reflects the image of a strong work ethic. Work ethic is not just something that will be unnecessary once high school ends. It is a skill that will lead to a successful life and will be used in any career or life you choose to pursue. 

The same concept goes for the lack of caring in relationships among teenagers. You are looked down upon if you treat someone the right way because it shows a sense of weakness. People these days find it “cooler” to just not care when you are in a relationship, which has led to the beginning of hook-up cultures. The hookup culture is when people do not care enough to put effort into going on dates and having an actual relationship. This prevents people from forming genuine connections with each other. This same concept can be seen with teenagers’ connection with their families. Brett Berrera (10) explains how “social media has negatively affected teenagers’ relationships with others because everyone tries to seem “cool” to others through their stories and posts. They are too embarrassed to be seen actually enjoying time with their family because it is viewed as humiliating when it is really one of the most valuable things you can do in life. 

However, without these important skills, values, and relationships, life will be miserable. It is crucial to have important connections and morals in life to keep a positive outlook on life. Teenagers are afraid to allow themselves to show a sense of weakness and vulnerability, but it’s necessary to do those things to get the best out of life. There is more to life than social media and how others view you, so it is important to make the fullest out of things and to care about the things you care about with your whole heart, so you can live the best life possible for yourself.