Contemporary Issues in Consumer Bahaviour Essay

Contemporary Issues in Consumer Bahaviour - Essay Example Within the broader framework of globalisation and market capitalism, consumption choices give special meanings and symbols to individuals that make it attractive to consumers and help develop consumer culture that thrives on consumption. Aldridge’s ‘classification of images of consumers in Western discourses’ therefore indicates restructuring of the social identity based on evolving consumer culture. The notion of consumer discourse is broadly social and refers to consumers’ social practices that are influenced by myriad socio-psychological compulsions which influence his/her consumption pattern. Consumption has emerged as a concept which is market driven and highlights complex relationships between interrelated elements of the market that are intrinsically linked to consumer behaviour. It is distinct in its social identity, social activity and cause. The consumption of commercial goods becomes important because of the role of external environment that tends to impact consumers through rhetorical communication used by producers of goods and services. The various discourses adopted by the market give it a unique perspective that promotes consumer culture defined by new values and based on consumption of goods. Aldridge (2003: 7) analyses the discourse on growing consumption compulsions and investigates the way people are redefining not only their values but also the way they see themselves as consumers in contemporary society. He emphasizes that the images of consumers are need driven but at the same time, those needs are continuously being manipulated by external environment of personal and professional rivalry. Thus, consumers have becomes more conscious of the way they are likely to view themselves and also the way others look at them. He also says that modes of communication like advertisements greatly influence their behavioural pattern and consumption habits.

Social and Psychological Factors of Methamphetamine Abuse Research Paper

Social and Psychological Factors of Methamphetamine Abuse - Research Paper Example As can be seen, choosing cocaine (and/or methamphetamine) is made without regard for the repercussions of danger or punishment. This information is exceedingly noteworthy when one looks at the effect methamphetamine has on its users. These precarious behaviors described by users as an intense high or euphoria, heightened sexual experiences, and focused attentions have been repeated in further studies and reveal that habit and compulsion overrides the recognition of obvious hazards. Even though there are reports of extreme paranoia and depression for weeks after abuse, users will continue to use making it difficult to hold down a job or take care of a family (American Council on Drug Education, n.d.). Looking at some of the most current theories in clinical and behavioral research, this paper will explore the multifaceted roles which predispose individuals to methamphetamine abuse by evaluating the psychological and social factors of addiction. Generally, peer group is one of the most import social factors leading to Methamphetamine abuse. As friends take this drug, individual finds it cool to use it. This has generally been one of the reasons why people at a young age start using abusive drugs. According to the national institute of health, ‘Monitoring the future survey’, drug abuse in 8th-10th graders is lesser (National Institute of Drug Abuse). However, it does exist, suggesting how ‘trying to be cool’ attitude may have influenced all this young students to take the drug. This is specifically the case with male students as boys are more likely to be aggressive and naughty as compared to girls. The colorless and odorless drug, when taken, increases the cognitive activity and makes the individual feel happier and excited. Hence, when the social surrounding becomes depressing, people tend to divert to such drugs. Due to the satisfaction gained by this drug,