Why Do High Schools Have Prom?

Prom is a highly anticipated event in the lives of many high school students. It is a night filled with glitz, glamour, and excitement, where students come together to celebrate the end of their high school journey. However, have you ever wondered why high schools have prom in the first place? In this essay, we will explore the historical origins of prom, discuss its social and cultural significance, and highlight the benefits it brings to high school students.

Why Do High Schools Have Prom?

Prom, short for promenade, has its roots in the early 20th century. It emerged as a formal event where students would gather to socialize and dance. The concept of prom was influenced by two main factors: debutante balls and college formals. Debutante balls, popular among the elite during the Victorian era, were events where young women were formally introduced to society. College formals, on the other hand, were events organized by universities to celebrate and honor their students. These influences shaped the early proms, which were formal affairs held in elegant venues. Over time, prom traditions have evolved. In the 1950s, prom became more popular and accessible to a wider range of students. It became a symbol of American teenage culture, portrayed in movies and popularized through media. Today, prom has become an integral part of the high school experience, with its own set of customs and traditions such as the selection of a prom king and queen, the promenade, and the crowning of the king and queen.

Prom holds significant social and cultural importance in the lives of high school students. It is often seen as a rite of passage, marking the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Attending prom is considered a milestone event, where students dress up and participate in a formal gathering. It is a time for students to create lasting memories with their friends and classmates before embarking on new journeys after high school.

Prom serves as a means of social bonding and community building. It brings together students from different cliques and social groups, allowing them to interact and form new friendships. Prom fosters a sense of unity and togetherness among the student body, promoting a positive school culture and spirit. It is also a platform for students to showcase their talents and creativity through various activities such as designing prom dresses, choreographing dance routines, and decorating the venue.

Prom is also a reflection of societal norms and expectations. It often embodies traditional roles and ideals of beauty, with girls wearing glamorous dresses and boys donning suits or tuxedos. The emphasis on appearance and the pressure to have a date can create a sense of social pressure and exclusion for some students. However, it is important to note that prom has evolved over time, and many schools now strive to create inclusive and diverse prom experiences that cater to the needs and preferences of all students.

Criticism Of High School Prom

While prom is widely celebrated and cherished by many high school students, it is not without its fair share of criticisms and controversies. One of the main concerns is the financial burden that prom expenses can impose on students and their families. The cost of prom tickets, attire, transportation, and other associated expenses can add up quickly, making prom an expensive event to attend. This can create a sense of exclusion for students who may not be able to afford the costs, leading to feelings of inequality and social pressure.

Another criticism revolves around the perpetuation of gender norms and expectations through prom traditions. Traditionally, girls are expected to wear glamorous dresses, while boys are expected to wear suits or tuxedos. This binary and heteronormative approach to prom attire can reinforce societal expectations of how individuals should present themselves based on their gender. It can limit self-expression and create a sense of conformity, particularly for students who do not identify within the traditional gender binary.

Inclusivity and diversity issues also surround prom experiences. Prom has historically been centred around a heterosexual narrative, with the expectation of attending prom with a date of the opposite sex. This can exclude LGBTQ+ students who may not conform to these expectations or who may not feel comfortable attending prom with a same-sex partner. Schools have made efforts to address these issues by implementing gender-neutral prom court categories, allowing students to attend with any partner of their choice, and promoting inclusive dress codes.

However, there is still progress to be made in ensuring that all students feel welcome and included in the prom experience.

Final Thoughts

Prom has become an integral part of the high school experience, with its historical origins dating back to the early 20th century. It holds significant social and cultural importance, serving as a rite of passage and a means of social bonding and community building. Prom provides numerous benefits for high school students, including promoting social interaction, creating a sense of belonging, and providing a platform for self-expression and creativity.

However, it is important to acknowledge the criticisms and controversies surrounding prom. The financial burden and exclusivity of prom expenses, perpetuation of gender norms and expectations, and inclusivity and diversity issues all need to be addressed to ensure that prom remains an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all students. Prom should continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and preferences of high school students.

By fostering inclusivity, promoting diversity, and addressing the concerns raised by critics, prom can continue to be a memorable and meaningful event in the lives of high school students, celebrating their achievements and marking the end of their high school journey.