THOUGHTS
Confessions of a Gen Y Kid: Pop Culture
Busywork, surreal play, and casual hedonism throughout the 1980s and 1990s foreshadowed much of our world’s present-day consternation
Millennials grew up with very specific cultural markers that have shaped our worldviews. It was reflected in the abuse we endured. It became exemplified by the toys and leisure activities that occupied our free time. Its metaphorical flavor could be found in the snacks upon which we feasted.
In Part 1 of my series “Confessions of a Gen Y Kid,” I highlighted what K-12 schooling was like for myself and so many of my generational peers. Today, I’ll explore the unwritten codes and novelty items that shaped our identities. Whether we employed them at school or for leisure play at home, there were certain hallmarks of the 1980s that extended into the 90s…until more updated technology made them obsolete.
Discipline
First, I’ll fully admit I was abnormal as a kid. In all of my years growing up, I was never once grounded by my parents — nor did I ever receive detention from any teachers. Part of this was due to my sheltered lack of social life, which can be largely attributed to my place on the autism spectrum. In addition, my reputation as a…
