Entitlement Generation

The current 25 and under age group, the Millennials, are being called the “Entitlement Generation”. First, let’s look at what entitlement means. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, entitlement is defined as, “(1) the condition of having a right to have, do, or get something (2) the feeling or belief that you deserve to be given something (such as special privileges) (3) a type of financial help provided by the government for members of a particular group” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). For the purposes of this paper, we will stick with the second definition listed in the dictionary. Some may ask, why is this an issue? Simply put, the belief that one does not have to earn a wage, or position of employment is, well, unsettling. Do we,

as concerned American adults, want to raise a society that expects to be given what is wanted, based on an expectation? How this state of mind has happened, is the question buzzing around the heads of older generations. How has this generation become so conditioned to believe that they are entitled to receive a participation trophy, or a lofty position without working diligently for these things? According to a recent study, "65% of Americans Say Millennials Are 'Entitled,' 58% of Millennials Agree" (Blake). Therefore, how can we, as concerned Americans help alter this for future generations? Perhaps, a simple solution, such as making Home Economics a requirement for graduation could be the answer.
Teaching the younger generations how to be responsible and form practical problem based learning skills. The familiar saying: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” (Ritchie) rings true to this point. Some may argue that this is an outdated/sexist class, or that children do not need to learn how to cook, or balance a check book, or wash their own laundry (Anonymous). Yes, for an individual who can afford to go out to eat, hire an accountant and pay for a laundry service, this may be possible, although, perhaps not as much for the rest of the American population, to whom these services are out of their budgets. Another thought provoking point is that one does not know what the future holds. Preparing the youth of American for life is vital for the future of this great nation.
Scrap out the outdated ideals that have been added to the image of a Home Economics class.

This is not all sewing and baking cookies. A modern Home Economics class, is actually called Family and Consumer Sciences, or FCS. An average FCS class teaches on the subjects of nutrition and cooking, financial skills, and other life skills, including: child care, and also home repairs (Qrcodesticker). Education on these life skills improves the education in how to take care of oneself, therefore, providing an opportunity to take pride in something that is entirely up to that single person. Some argue that this is a promotion of an outdated or sexist lifestyle, however, being able to take care of ones finances, cook a nutritious meal, and make repairs around the house are all translatable skills for whatever gender a person may be. Being able to problem solve, read and follow directions, and pay the bills are all vital skills to survive in American

Society.
How is this translatable to not having another “Entitled Generation”?

Simply put, being able to take pride in ones accomplishments, alters a person’s state of mind. Mary Reilly, an influential woman in the history of occupational therapy, said it best when she said, “That man, through the use of his hands as they are energized by mind and will, can influence the state of his own health.” (Mary Reilly). This means that we as humans find purpose and meaning through learning, and accomplishing tasks ourselves. In utilizing a simple program in our high schools, such as a FCS class, we are giving future generations the confidence, and ability to take care of themselves, and provide not only confidence, but

competence.