What influence do 'trendy' adverts have on our young people? They stop them smiling... that's what!

Two different adverts aimed at two different generations. Both advertising clothing and shoes. These both appeared in my house this week. 

The top advert shows a brightly coloured image, the model looking seemingly happy and confident. The emotions attached to it are light and easy going for me. 

Switch down to the lower advert for the younger generation. Both models are not only serious, but look shifty and angry. It's set in a gloomy subway, with dark drab colours. The magazine was full of this type of advert, what message is this sending to our youngsters? 

It's cool to be miserable? 

The pair of them look like they've been caught out, or up to something in the advert... does this also project that it's trendy to be hanging around dodgy tunnels getting up to mischief?

Look at me saying 'mischief', 'shifty' and 'dodgy'... I sound like my parents! But things like this do genuinely worry me. I showed the two adverts to my 17 year old son this morning, and it was even an eye opener for him to see the difference in what they project to us.

I asked him, "is it cool NOT to smile around your friends?" his answer was a thoughtful "Yes sometimes".

Science Bit:

Smiling releases endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins are natural painkillers. The more endorphins your brain releases, the more your body can fight off symptoms of illness. Similarly, serotonin is a brain chemical that acts as a natural anti-depressant

Is the media choosing to mimic a teenager's hormonal low points in advertising to get their attention? that would be a shame if they are, when probably all the poor kids want and need is something to lift them out of their low mood. Looking at a magazine full of ads like this will certainly not help any depression or down days.

"I couldn't imagine walking around all day without smiling, yet I see some kids like it constantly."

It's amazing what smiling can do for your health and moods... go on kids, give it a try!

Wear a smile for a day and see how you feel at the end...

If you are struggling to cope with life, don't hesitate to contact Sam or Jackie at Therapy for Life