The Hidden Cost of Survival: Why Young People Must Guard Their Futures Against Exploitative Relationships
In many communities today, economic hardships force young people to make difficult choices. Some young girls, coming from impoverished backgrounds, may find themselves relying on men for financial support, while some young men depend on older women, often called “sugar mummies,” for sustenance or lifeclass benefits. At first glance, these arrangements may seem like survival strategies, but the truth is far more complex—and far more dangerous.
The Reality of Exploitative Relationships
Many of these relationships are not built on love, mutual respect, or genuine care. Instead, they are transactional: the young person provides companionship, affection, or intimacy, while the older partner gains power, pleasure, or social status. The immediate relief of financial support can mask the long-term consequences.
For young girls, being dependent on men can expose them to emotional manipulation, early trauma, and health risks (Jewkes et al., 2015).
For young men, relying on older women for survival can foster dependency, undermine self-esteem, and delay the development of independent skills (LeClair et al., 2019).
In both cases, the young person’s potential—education, career development, and personal growth—can be severely compromised.
The Long-Term Effects
Emotional Damage: Relying on others for survival can create feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness, which linger long after the relationship ends (World Health Organization, 2021).
Physical and Health Risks: Exploitative relationships can involve coercion, unsafe sexual practices, or exposure to substance abuse (UNAIDS, 2019).
Loss of Independence: Dependence on others for money or support can stifle ambition and self-reliance (UNICEF, 2020).
Limited Opportunities: Time and energy spent in these arrangements are time not spent building careers, acquiring skills, or pursuing dreams (International Labour Organization, 2021).
A Better Path Forward
While the pressures of poverty are real, there are alternative ways to survive while building a future. Young people must be reminded that dignity and self-respect are invaluable, and no immediate need should outweigh long-term aspirations.
Pursue Simple Jobs: Part-time work, apprenticeships, or freelance opportunities—even if humble—can provide income without compromising integrity (ILO Youth Employment Report, 2021).
Invest in Skills: Learning practical skills, trades, or digital competencies can create long-term financial independence (World Bank, 2020).
Seek Mentorship: Guidance from trustworthy mentors can help navigate economic and social challenges without resorting to exploitative relationships (OECD, 2018).
Prioritize Education and Dreams: Staying committed to personal goals—even when progress is slow—ensures a future beyond survival, one built on choice, not dependence (UNESCO, 2020).
Build a Support Network: Family, community programs, and local organizations can provide resources, guidance, and emotional support (UNICEF, 2020).
The Courage to Say No
Choosing dignity over temporary survival is not easy, but it is necessary. Young people must realize that saying “no” to exploitative relationships is a step toward freedom, self-worth, and a future they control. It is better to endure short-term hardship than to surrender your life and dreams to someone else’s desires.
Conclusion
Poverty and struggle are undeniable realities, but falling into the trap of transactional relationships can permanently derail the lives of young people. True survival is not merely about having enough to eat today—it is about securing a life of independence, self-respect, and potential. By pursuing simple work, investing in skills, and protecting their integrity, young people can break free from cycles of exploitation and build a future they can be proud of.
Empowerment comes not from dependence on others, but from believing in your worth and taking bold steps toward your dreams.
References
Jewkes, R., et al. (2015). Intimate partner violence: Causes and consequences. The Lancet, 385(9977), 1506–1517.
LeClair, M., et al. (2019). Transactional relationships among youth: Risks and consequences. Journal of Adolescent Research, 34(2), 143–168.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Adolescent mental health and well-being. Geneva: WHO.
UNAIDS. (2019). Global HIV & AIDS statistics — 2019 fact sheet.
UNICEF. (2020). Youth and vulnerability: Building resilience through education and social programs.
International Labour Organization (ILO). (2021). Global youth employment trends.
World Bank. (2020). Skills for youth development and employment.
OECD. (2018). Mentorship and youth empowerment: Evidence and policy recommendations.
UNESCO. (2020). Education and lifelong learning: Pathways out of poverty.
"dont be scared of hunger, face it, you will become stronger and better version"
Eric Paddy Boso is a spiritual researcher and visionary writer on a mission (SPIRITUAL AWAKENING OF HUMANITY) to awaken divine purpose in a distracted world. He exposes hidden systems, bridges ancient wisdom with modern truth, and speaks with the fire of alignment and awakening.
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