The Rise of the American Teenager
Rules for the American TeenBehavioral Rules
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Much like women, teens had strict cultural rules they were meant to follow, the youth of America were also put under strict social and cultural rules by their parents. Teens were to be quiet and respectful, they certainly were never to cause trouble, and the very notion of sex was to be avoided! Teens were to emulate (copy) their parents and keep their emotions hidden and to not make waves in their social groups. They were to obey authority in every aspect of their daily lives, girls were to behave as a girl should and boys should seek to be manly and reserved.
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Rebels
No wonder so many American teenagers turned to the "Rebel Without A Cause" or "Beat" lifestyle. The Rebels embraced an angry and rock and roll lifestyle with slicked back hair, black leather jackets, fast cars and motorcycles. They were often referred to as Juvenile Delinquents. The "Beats", unlike the rebels, were a bit older (college age) and used thoughtful rebellion against the norm, turning to poetry and novel writing in order to get their voice heard.