Prom reflects societal constructs of gender and class divisions, emphasizing normative stereotypes.
Children's ability to delay gratification affects long-term success, influenced by factors like privilege.
Deep dives
Prom: A Social Justice Battleground
Prom has been a battleground for social justice, showcasing discriminatory codes of morality and etiquette. The event, tracing its origins to 19th century America, reflected societal ideals of gender roles and class divisions. Despite becoming more inclusive in contemporary times, prom continues to perpetuate normative stereotypes. The occasion, through dress codes and behavior expectations, emphasizes societal constructs of adulthood and acceptable behavior, often reinforcing traditional notions of relationships and identity.
The Marshmallow Experiment and Delayed Gratification
The Stanford Marshmallow Experiment explored children's ability to delay gratification and its long-term impacts on their lives. Kids who could wait for a second treat displayed higher SAT scores, lower substance abuse rates, and improved social competence as adolescents. This ability correlated with increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, associated with executive functions. However, studies have shown factors like privilege and resources influence a child's ability to delay gratification, raising questions about the experiment's broader implications.
Life's Uncertainties and Seizing the Future
Life's uncertainties challenge the concept of delaying gratification and the belief in future rewards. While delaying gratification is linked to better outcomes on average, individual experiences vary due to factors like luck and privilege. The importance of believing in the future is contrasted with the realities of life's precarity and unpredictable nature, impacting one's ability to invest in long-term goals. In the end, embracing the present moment and seizing opportunities amidst life's uncertainties becomes a nuanced approach to navigating one's path.
