THEIR WORD COUNTS

 In today’s times, more and more youngsters are taking part in the family’s decisionmaking process.

DECISION MAKERS: Youngsters are taking part

in important family discussions

SOME parents believe that youngsters are the window to the world. Fully acquainted with most facets of life, these teenagers have an immense amount of information about everything around them. Independent and confident about their choices, likes and dislikes, they are playing an increasingly important role in the decision-making processes of a family. Vivek Bhagat, a working professional, says, “Since our generation is more tech-savvy and keeps themselves updated with the latest news, parents rely on us when it comes to purchasing a laptop, or a television at home.” But, are the youngsters involved in decision-making only when the focus is on buying a gadget or something similar? No, insists Khushboo Bhatia, adding, “Since I was ten-years-old, I have always been a part of purchase-related discussions at home.

From buying a mobile phone to buying the perfect house, I put my point forward. They are accepted, too.” From choosing the best LCD television to giving their views on where to invest for property, youngsters today have a say in every decision taken at home. Gone are the days when the teens would be shooed away when parents started talking money. Today is the age of equal involvement, and many parents feel that age shouldn’t be an obstacle. Manju Suresh, a working professional and mother of a 12-year-old, says, “Giving them a chance to put forth their views gives them a feeling of independence. Also, they learn to take good decisions. My daughter is too young for serious decisions. But, I make sure she gets involved and her suggestions are always appreciated.”

Forget products and gadgets, today’s Gen Y also talk about money and risk factors. Abhishek Parikh, a student, recalls, “It was I who forced my dad to invest in a housing project. The risk was high. But, I had been following the market since long, and was sure that it was not a bad investment. Today, my dad is proud that I took that decision.” Yasmin Mazda, a mother, recollects, “We wanted to purchase a laptop. But we were quite unsure if we could rely on our son’s decision. He was firm, and did not want to compromise on the product. We bought the laptop he wanted and, today, we are happy that we went with his opinion.”

Youngsters take risks and dream big readily, which gives their decisions a bolder edge. Gone are the days when the final word would be of that of the eldest. Today, the roles have reversed. That, feel many, is for the better.