<p>April, 2006 SAT Essay Score: 12/12
Think carefully about the issue presented in the following excerpt and the assignment below:
Inconsistency is commonly thought to be an undesirable personality trait, and inconsistent people are viewed as indecisive and weak willed. On the other hand, firm commitment to an idea or plan of action is associated with personal and intellectual strength, stability, and honesty. Thus, once we have made a choice or taken a stand, it is best not to change.</p>
<p>Adapted from Robert B. Cialdini, Influence: How and Why People Agree to Things
Assignment: Is it best not to change our ideas, opinions, or behaviors? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.</p>
<p>As Robert B. Cialdini says, consistency in ones ideas is related closely to social perceptions. Not only does one appear to be strong-willed and determined, one also feels like her or she has displayed a personality trait that will assist him or her in dilemmas and conflicts that will arise in the future.
Society expects adults to stand firm in and constantly support their beliefs. Another social trend that has arisen over the years is that teenagers require room for trial and error. Over the years, media and sensationalism have been telling children that there is no shame in conformity. However, teenagers need to break loose from the treacherous ties of peer pressure. The fear and indecision one feels when he or she is offered his or her first beer or marijuana joint is understandable. However, the media has sent the message to children that they should not hesitate to be cool or have a little fun.
This generation lives in a world with countless opportunities. Technology is unbelievably advanced and the power of the mind continues to go beyond the realm of comprehension. Teenagers develop their own opinions and think of their own now more than ever. However, this rebellion which many teenagers see as a fight for what they believe in, is simply a cowardly guise for the insecurity and lack of individualism too many teenagers experience today. Every new fashion trend has been worn before, and every new idea has been thought of by another. The problem lies in the dream world and the false hope todays youth possess. The process starts at home. Parents care so much about their children that sometimes they fail to instill the staple morals and principles their precious children will need to set civilization and humanity back on the track of progress and innovation. They key to success in this difficult task is to remain strong in moral beliefs and personally held truths.
When one faces adversity and surmounts the treacherous obstacle of peer pressure, scorn and ridicule may be immediate effects. However, that individual earns somebodys respect, gains a more profound sense of oneself, and most importantly takes a critical step towards greatness in terms of self-esteem and in ones future along with the future of the world.</p>
<p>Hope this helps.</p>