Generation Me, a thought-provoking book written by Jean M. Twenge, Ph.D. spoke to the problems of young Americans today. Twenge conducted much research into the lifestyles of young Americans to determine their differences compared to “Boomers” – people born before the 1970s. Twenge compared the results of personality tests administered to “Boomers” when they were under 30, and to young Americans today. This book is also based on films, magazines, newspapers, anecdotal stories of his and others. Twenge argued that people born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s called "Generation Me" or "GenMe" are a generation that is highly optimistic but faces overwhelming realities. Young people put themselves above all else, which can lead to individualism, self-centeredness and self-esteem. Therefore, today's young Americans experience several problems as a result of focusing on themselves. Ever since GenMe were born, they have been taught to put themselves first. The media, school curricula, and movies have told GenMe that they are unique from childhood through high school. Therefore, they tend to be overconfident. However, this condition is extremely different than Boomers; they were taught to introspect and be self-centered. GenMe is more important and individualistic. They conclude that they are more independent, so they don't think about the deleterious effects of self-importance. First, Generation Me grew up believing that everyone should have high individualism. Focusing on individual needs begins when Genme are children, even before they are born. Some parents spend a lot of money looking for the best bedroom for their children and create a perfect room. Parents usually decorate the room by painting the wall with a large letter of the child's name, which symbolizes individualism. S...... middle of paper ......in developing countries, Generation Me goes global and more and more young people are anti-family and group-oriented. Technologies and material things may make life easier for Generation Me, but they don't seem to be happy. Compared to the lives of our descendants, we now face the confusing world of many difficult choices. Like the essay above, advice can combat the negative aspects of generational trends. Young people must learn to accept and understand others rather than prioritizing themselves. Works Cited Last Fashion Tendencies: March 2009." Please place site name in italics. Np, nd Web. March 2, 2011 Twenge, Jean M. Generation Me: Why Young Americans Today Are More Confident, Assertive, Empowered, and Unhappier than ever New York: Free, 2006. Print