Teens need to rethink value system

I have serious doubts about teenagers' values. The story of a Form Two student giving out cash and iPhones to classmates who called him 'Big Brother' was shocking. He did it to impress a girl he likes.

Life is bliss for today's teenagers. They lack self-control and critical thinking. They are vulnerable to surrounding temptations, and they are too materialistic. They attach great value to luxury goods, accessories and the latest gadgets. They think money is a status symbol.

Some of them go on extreme diets to be slim. They think 'slim' is 'beautiful'. They are easily influenced by their peers.

As for the Form Two student, I think his parents should be partly responsible. Parents should be role models for their children. They should not spoil them and give them everything they want.

Christina Chan Cheuk-man, CNEC Christian College

From the Editor

Thank you for your letter, Christina. The student you mention will not be the first young man to do something stupid for love, nor will he be the last. He is young, and young people do unwise things. What is more worrying is the media circus surrounding the event. I'm sure the young man has been completely humiliated by his actions which, while a mistake, could be seen as being romantic.

Many adults give people gifts as a way to gain their friendship and affection. It stems from a lack of confidence. I can't help thinking that this poor youngster's confidence will be shattered by the publicity he has received.

Yes, maybe his attitude towards material goods is unhealthy. Many people share this attitude. But perhaps in this case we should just spare a thought for him and be glad that our mistakes don't make it into the news.

Susan, Editor