In the state of Texas, United States, a teenage boy from a wealthy family caused the deaths of four people while driving under the influence of alcohol. The boy’s parents stated, “We gave him everything he wanted, but he suffered from severe affluenza, so he was difficult to control.” Although the law in Texas allows for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, the court sentenced him to 10 years of probation and ordered him to receive treatment for affluenza. The victims’ families strongly protested, calling it a ruling that favored the rich.
“Affluenza” is a compound word formed from affluent, meaning wealthy, and influenza, meaning a contagious flu. It is a neologism that expresses the greed of modern people who, as they become more prosperous, desire to have even more. It is also referred to as a “rich person’s disease” or a “luxury sickness.”
As consumerism becomes more widespread, even young students are beginning to prefer expensive padded jackets and mobile phones. As a result, when they are unable to obtain what others have, they feel a sense of deprivation and stress. Experts advise that, to overcome this, one should avoid comparing oneself with others, seek out personal sources of joy, and place importance on the value of family.