I have many friends that were once very well off, but because of their parents irresponsibilty, they are now having financial difficulties. Another downfall they have, is their sence of pride. Many of these kids grew up to have the same attitude as their parents did. They look down on the poor and consider themselves to be of higher quality. When your in high school, this kind of behavior can have a very negative impact on you.
Conspicuous consumption is a terrible issue in todays society.
Nobody is saying that it's bad to buy desirable things. If you have the money you are at an advantage in America. However, when people's attitudes start to change and they begin putting people down, that is how you know conspicuous consumption has become a problem.