Abstract
The use of modern communication technology (MCT) has not only influenced the
material lifestyle of young individuals but also has brought changes in their
attitudes and perceptions regarding different issues concerning their daily lives.
The present paper aims to explain these changes using „Ecological Systems
Theory‟ by Urie Bronfenbrenner. In the present study, a theoretical model has
been developed from this theory to explain the complexity of perception and
attitude development among youth. The present study deployed mixedmethodology. Quantitative research techniques were applied to collect data from
600 young respondents belonging to the age group between 20-24 years using
self-administered questionnaire. To have a broader picture on the phenomenon,
qualitative data was drawn from the parents through conducting in-depth
interviews. Major findings of the study indicate that under the influence of
complex nested systems of layers of environment, starting from the family of the
young individuals to the global level, the change experienced by youth is more of a
material nature whereas the basic fabric of values remains intact. The youth used
to share their „meaning of success in life‟ with their parents and prefer to make
their choices in life according to their parents‟ approval. The relation with grandparents is of sentimental nature where they are considered as respectful figure. On
the other hand, the use of increased MCT among the youth has decreased their
neighborhood bonding and intimacy with near relatives as compared to previous
generation. The use of MCT has increased the influence of consumer culture,
creating an inclination towards the culture of “branded-products”, however this
has not created disloyalty towards country or alienation from religion among the
Pakistani youth.
Fauzia Saleem Alvi, Ahmed Usman, Aaisha Amjad. (2018) The Ecological Systems Theory: A Dimension of Understanding the Changing Youth in Pakistan, Journal of the Research Society of Pakistan, Volume 55, Issue 1.
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