Introduction
In “Kids in the Mall: Growing Up Controlled,” William Kowinski explores the role of shopping malls in the lives of American youth. Kosinski argues that the mall has become a common experience for most American youth, who spend more time there than anywhere else besides home and school. He examines the impact of this on their development and questions whether it is harmful or beneficial.
Article Summary
The author begins by sharing anecdotal stories of children who spend significant amounts of time at the mall, either by choice or due to a lack of alternatives. He notes that the mall is where many adolescents have their first experiences and learn about the ways of a large-scale, artificial environment (Kowinski, 2005). The attendance of teenagers in malls was not a thing mall developers initially planned for, but it has become a common occurrence.
The International Council of Shopping Centers even commissioned a study on handling the teenage presence in malls. It was discovered that teenagers in suburban centers often come to the mall out of boredom and spend their time there mainly as a place to go. They may engage in activities such as fighting, drinking, and littering, but overall, they present fewer problems than their urban counterparts (Kowinski, 2005). Teenagers tend to congregate in groups and choose their locations within the mall. Mall managers have responded by installing game arcades to channel teenagers into limited areas away from adult shoppers.
The author argues that mall management tolerates and encourages teenagers to be there and work as “baby-sitters” because these adolescents already share the same principles as shopping center management. The mall is seen as a place to reinforce consumerism and shape teenagers into lifelong shoppers (Kowinski, 2005). The author proposes that frequenting the mall reinforces the idea that life’s purpose is to acquire money and purchase goods. He also notes that the pressure to consume is prevalent in society and affects children from a young age, with clothes consciousness even invading grade schools.
In addition, Kosinski argues that the mall’s focus on consumption and materialism may add to the phenomenon of the “hurried child.” Children are exposed to adult concepts and responsibilities early, which may not align with their emotional development (Kowinski, 2005). The author suggests that the mall is a surrogate mother, providing structure and nurturing elements that some children may lack at home.
However, Kosinski also acknowledges that spending time in the mall can have some educational benefits for all parties. There are bookstores, tools, and products that can help young people find and express their identity. The mall also provides opportunities for interaction with older people and the passing show, which can be educational (Kowinski, 2005). Additionally, one should note that the skills learned in navigating controlled environments like the mall may be helpful in a future where preplanned and regulated environments are more prevalent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kowinski argues that the mall has become a significant part of American young people’s culture and development. While it may reinforce consumerism and materialism, it also offers educational opportunities and prepares young people for a future of regulated environments. However, the author suggests it would benefit young people to have more choices and exposure to unenclosed reality.
Reference
Kowinski W. (2005). Kids in the mall: Growing up controlled.In Q. Miller, The Generation of Ideas. (pp 207-209). Cengage Learning.
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