A fresh and calculated look at US teenagers: Examining the present to predict the future

This paper takes a fresh look at the teenage population in the U.S. In addi tion to reviewing a series of recent empirical studies on teenagers, the pa per presents a straightforward model whereby research findings pertaining t o teenagers might be conceptualized and organized. Ultimately, the model ma y be utilized not only to develop a better understanding of teens, but also to predict their behavior and derive sound economic strategy on behalf of the various organizations and institutions entrusted to serve and support t his important segment of the population. The paper considers current cognit ions and affect of U.S. teenagers and their parents, as well as current and future teen behavior. As a unique and ever-changing segment of the populat ion, teenagers are socially as well as economically significant. and warran t continued study and contemplation by a variety of public, private, for-pr ofit, and not-for-profit firms, organizations, and/or institutions.