Journal Article — Beyond the “Goods Life”: Mass Consumerism, Conflict, and the Latchkey-Kid — by Jennifer R. Lambert

Consumerism is one of everyday scripts we play in our lives. It is defined as the “effects of equating personal happiness with purchasing material possessions and consumption” (Consumerism, 1). Consumption is defined as the “selection, adoption, use, disposal and recycling of goods and services” (Consumption, 1). Consumerism, for the most part, has become an affliction of sorts, and it promotes a materialistic lifestyle. This materialistic lifestyle is part of our stage. It is made up of our clothes, food (yes, food can fall into this category, for we have food markets that are cool to go to), homes, cars, gadgets, vacations choices—the list can go on and on. Consumerism affects everyone, no matter how much someone may deny it; however, the extent of its effect depend on the individual. Like many of my friends and acquaintances, I was a victim early in life.