Canadian Marketing Blog

Gas or hot air?

I came across an article recently on a Seattle news site. The article claims the increase in gas prices is having a significant impact on teen's social lives.

Teens once reached their 16th birthdays with visions of driving and freedom racing through their minds. Now, instead of thinking about saving money for a new car stereo, young drivers are worried about gas prices. So, how are they being affected?

They are more selective in their choice of employment. They are looking for jobs that are closer to home and believe the amount of money they would have to pay to drive to work would exceed the amount they receive on their pay cheque.

Gas prices are also influencing the dating scene, with friends saying they feel obligated to share expenses. Teens are going Dutch or are alternating who drives and pays for the date.

Sometimes, they even feel they can't afford to go out. That's probably why we're seeing the trend move towards entertaining at home. Many teens and Gen Y'rs are "pimping" up their bedrooms and are hanging out at home as an inexpensive alternative to going out.

I would love to know your thoughts. Do you think that gas prices are really making an impact in teen's social lives or is it all hype?

I would hate to find out that teen dates today are ending with "we should do this again sometime. and that'll be $5 for gas"

I doubt things are going to radically change. A lot of teens are driving daddy's car, anyway. It's likely that the parents take care of the gas in the family car.

Besides, Gen Y teens work a lot (http://www.statcan.ca/english/freepub/75-001-XIE/10507/high-1.htm)
...so I'm sure they have enough cash to take out Sally or Billy for a ride to the malt shop.

Fallarme, I think your missing the point of the blog. I suggest re-reading. There is a much greater emphasis on environmental issues on the west coast, and this is the article Jennifer is referring to.

Great blog Jennifer!