Behavior Today: Rubber Bracelets

QUESTION: What is the appeal of donning these rubber bracelets?

APRIL MASINI: Are you kidding? They’re cheap, they’re colorful, they’re jewelry and accessories, they’re unisex, they’re waterproof so you can leave them on in the shower and not lost them, they’re hip, they’re very MTV, and the kids love ‘em!! They wear them alone, in groups, and the fact that they’re cheap and Bar Mitzvah party hosts give them out as gifts by the dozen at dance concerts.

QUESTION: Haven’t they lost their zing, given that so many millions wear them for everything from breast cancer awareness and multiple sclerosis to ridiculous things like how much they love their cars?

APRIL MASINI: They have lost their zing for many people, but there are so many others who were not privy to charity events where the bracelets were first distributed, that now that the bracelets are mainstream, everyone gets to experience and enjoy them.

QUESTION: Hasn’t this become a useless fad?

APRIL MASINI: Hey — fads ARE useless. They’re all about fashion and trends. These bracelets will be hip until the next hot thing comes along.