Adolescence and Fashion: A Psychological Perspective”

  • Ms. Mitali Nevtia
  • Dr. Monika
Keywords: Fashion, fashion psychology, fashion on teens, fashion trends, psychological effects of fashion

Abstract

Fashion is a reflection of society’s social, cultural and economic environment, particularly among teenagers who are navigating the critical phases of identity formation and social development.

This study examines the psychological effects of fashion on teens in Amritsar, a city known for its vibrant fashion scene and rich cultural legacy. The purpose of the study is to determine how teens' daily

life,    sense    of self,    interactions    with others, and academic achievement are influenced by fashion. Using a mixed- method approach  comprising  qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, the study offers a thorough examination  of the influence of fashion on Amritsar's teenage population's psychological environment.

A standardized questionnaire is used in the study’s quantitative component, and it is given to 300 teenagers, ages 13 to 19, from different Amritsar schools and colleges. Important elements like fashion consciousness, peer pressure, self- esteem, and academic performance are evaluated in this poll. Thirty participants were interviewed in-depth for the qualitative component, which offers deeper, more nuanced insights into their individual experiences and perspectives on fashion.

The results of the quantitative survey show that fashion trends have a big impact on the majority of youngsters in Amrits ar. About 70% of participants indicated that they regularly monitor fashion trends, with social media serving as their mai n informational resource on the subject. Peer pressure and this high level of fashion consciousness are strongly related; a ccording to 65% of participants, they feel under pressure to wear a certain way in order to blend in with their friends. Th is kind of pressure frequently results in a demand for name-

brand apparel and accessories, which can strain families financially and widen the socioeconomic divide among youn gsters.

The influence of fashion on self- worth is complex. The findings suggest that teenagers' perceptions of themselves can be influenced by fashion in both g ood and negative ways. Some people find that dressing stylishly boosts their self- esteem and confidence, giving them a sense of acceptability and belonging among their peer groups. The increase in s elf-

esteem is especially noticeable for individuals who can purchase branded goods and stay up to date with current trends. Teens who fall behind on fashion trends, on the other hand, frequently feel inadequate and have poorer self-

esteem. This contradiction highlights how  fashion can be both a positive and negative influence on youngsters' lives. The qualitative interviews provide a more in-depth understanding of the significance of fashion in teenage social relationships. Many participants stated that wearing appropriately is critical to make a good impression and being accepted by their peers. Fashion is frequently utilized as a means of social signaling, showing group affiliation and personal identification. For example, teenagers may adopt certain styles to fit in with specific social groups, such as athletes, artists, or academically inclined friends. However, a focus on fashion can lead to judgment and exclusion based on looks, exacerbating social divisions and bullying. Several interviewees described being teased or stigmatized for not following established dress conventions, emphasizing the social consequences associated with nonconformity.

The effect of fashion on academic achievement Is also investigated in this study. The results imply that the impact of fashion in this domain is multifaceted and individualistic. While some students said that fashion had little bearing on their academic performance, others said that the time and effort required to maintain a fashionable appearance could divert attention from homework. For example, the pressure to seem fashionable at social events or school functions can result in more stress and less concentration on academic tasks. Higher stress levels and poorer academic performance might arise from this distraction, especially for those who find it difficult to reconcile their passion for fashion with their academic responsibilities.

 

Apart from these fundamental domains, the research delves into the wider sociological and cultural elements that influence the fashion choices of teenagers and their psychological consequences. Amritsar has a distinct fashion scene because of the way that contemporary fashion trends blend with traditional attire and cultural heritage. Adolescents frequently juggle these influences, mixing traditional and modern fashions. Their ability to blend two cultures can enhance their sense of style, but it can also provide difficulties as they navigate their identities in the face of peer and familial pressure.

Teenagers’ experiences are also greatly influenced by their parents’ views on fashion. According to the survey, parents’ attitudes on fashion might be anything from encouraging to constrictive. Some parents, who see fashion as a means of creativity and self-expression, urge their kids to express themselves via it. Some, on the other hand, are worried about the

 

 

cost and possible drawbacks of following fashion trends. The psychological pressures that teens experience in relation to fashion might be lessened or increased by this parental influence.

The study also emphasizes how media and advertising Influence teens’ awareness of fashion. Ads, fashion publications, and social networking sites inundate teens with pictures of perfected beauty and style. These media portrayals frequently impose unattainable ideals, which can cause problems with body image and an obsession with perfection. According to the interviews, a lot of youngsters feel pressure to look like influencers and celebrities, frequently at the sacrifice of their self-worth and financial security. This competitive and consumerism-driven fashion culture is fuelled by the media and might have long-term psychological repercussions.

The study also emphasizes how significant peer pressure Is in the world of fashion. Teenagers frequently emulate the fashion trends of their friends, with peer groups acting as their main sources of fashion inspiration. This peer-driven fashion dynamic has the potential to reinforce social cohesiveness and a sense of belonging, but it can also reinforce exclusion and conformity. Significant tension and anxiety can result from the pressure to fit in with the group, especially for those who find it difficult to live up to the expectations. The study concludes that teens’ self-esteem and general psychological health are greatly influenced by peer approval.

To sum up, this research offers a thorough evaluation of the psychological effects of fashion on teenagers in Amritsar. Their academic achievement, social interactions, and sense of self are all greatly impacted by fashion, both positively and negatively. The results show how intricate interactions among social, cultural, and individual elements shape teenagers’ fashion experiences and psychological consequences. The study emphasizes the importance of taking a balanced approach to fashion and raising parents’ and teens’ awareness of any possible psychological repercussions. These findings should be taken into account by educators and legislators in order to establish conditions that promote positive self-image and lessen the detrimental effects of pressures associated with fashion.

A number of suggestions are made in order to remedy the issues that the investigation found. First and foremost, it is important for educational institutions to include conversations about fashion and self-worth in their curricula in order to encourage students’ critical thinking and resilience. These initiatives can support teens in forming positive relationships with fashion by motivating them to view it as a means of self-expression rather than a cause of rivalry or stress. Second, parents ought to be urged to have candid conversations with their kids regarding fashion and how it affects their lives. Parents can lessen the harmful impacts of peer pressure and media influences by getting to know their children’s viewpoints and offering counsel. Programs for financial literacy can also be advantageous, assisting youngsters in making wise decisions about their fashion expenditures without jeopardizing their financial stability.

Thirdly, media literacy programs must to be put in place to teach teens how advertising and the media shape their ideas of what constitutes beauty and fashion. With the help of these programs, teenagers can learn to assess media messages critically and cultivate a more positive and realistic self-image. By working together, media outlets, parents, and schools may increase the impact of these programs and help create a more informed and encouraging environment for teenagers. Furthermore, teens’ positive body image and self-esteem can be fostered by fashion companies and merchants. Brands may celebrate a greater range of body shapes and styles and challenge unattainable beauty standards by showcasing diverse models and inclusive fashion campaigns. Collaborations between fashion labels and academic institutions can also support seminars and activities that inspire teens’ creativity and self-assurance. Ultimately, additional investigation is required to examine the enduring psychological consequences of fashion impacts on adolescents. In-depth understanding of how fashion affects a person’s development over time can be gained through longitudinal studies, which can help build support systems and therapies that are more successful. A more comprehensive knowledge of this complicated problem can be achieved through collaborative research projects that incorporate viewpoints from the fields of education, psychology, sociology, and fashion studies.

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the significant psychological influence that fashion has on Amritsar-based teens, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of fashion in their life. We can assist teenagers in navigating the complexity of fashion and creating strong, self-assured identities by raising awareness, encouraging critical thinking, and creating supportive surroundings. The knowledge gathered from this study can be used to improve teen wellbeing policies and practices, making sure that fashion are a source of unity and positivity rather than conflict or anxiety.

Author Biographies

Ms. Mitali Nevtia

Department of home Science, Tantia University, SGNR, Rajasthan.  

Dr. Monika

Department of home Science, Tantia University, SGNR, Rajasthan.

 

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Published
2024-06-22
How to Cite
Ms. Mitali Nevtia, & Dr. Monika. (2024). Adolescence and Fashion: A Psychological Perspective”. Revista Electronica De Veterinaria, 25(1), 2819 - 2827. https://doi.org/10.69980/redvet.v25i1.1395
Section
Articles