Holden Represents a Typical Teen

Holden represents a typical teen in a number of ways. One way Holden exhibits teen behavior is by being rebellious. He accomplishes the complete opposite of what his parents would like him to. Holden flunks out and is kicked out of a number of schools. He seems to have no big problem with this and is constantly placing the blame on others. Holden also indulges in inappropriate underage activities such as smoking and and drinking. Holden visits bars often and is constantly asked to provide id to show prove of age. This is done to see if he is the legal age to consume alcohol. Holden often times becomes offended when asked for proof of id because he feels he is and adult and should be able to drink. To avoid being asked for proof of id Holden tries to make himself look older then he actually is, this is shown when he meets up with Luce at the bar. "I sat down at the bar- it was pretty crowded and had a couple of Scotch and sodas before old Luce even showed up. I stood up when I ordered them so they could see how tall I was and all and not think I was a goddam minor." (Salinger pg.142).

Secondly Holden represents typical teen behavior because he expresses sexual attraction to the opposite sex and he also expresses interest in sexual topics of conversation. Holden's sexual drive is so strong that often times he lust for girls. Holden states that he "falls in love" with girls when he finds a girl who is physically beautiful. Holden shows this type of behavior when he goes out on a date with Sally Hayes. "She hardly ever wore a hat, but that beret looked nice. The funny part is, I felt like marrying her the minute I saw her. I'm crazy. I didn't even like her much, and yet all of a sudden I felt like i was in love with her and wanted to marry her. I swear to God I'm crazy. I admit it." (Salinger pg.124). Holden through out the book also chooses to talk about sexual topics, because he is curious about the topic of sex. At one point during the book Holden purchases a prostitute for a night. Before the prostitute arrives Holden describes his thoughts and lack of experience with sexually activity. "I was a little nervous. I was starting to feel pretty sexy and all, but I was a little nervous anyway. If you really want to know the truth, I'm a virgin. I really am. I've had quite a few opportunities to lose my virginity and all, but I've never got around to it yet." (Salinger pg. 92).  

Holden is much like a typical teen because he participates in reckless activities and shows signs that he feels indestructible. Teens often feel as though they are invincible and can do whatever they please. Teens also struggle with the idea that they are no longer a child but not yet an adult. Teens wish to be treated like adults and believe "acting" like adults by smoking, drinking, and participating in sexual activities will allow for society to accept them as adults. These are the same feelings and actions that Holden adapts through out the book.