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Homecoming Signs Lead to Unnecessary Pressure

Photo from picryl / CC BY-SA 4.0

As homecoming season arrives, public proposals with flashy signs become the main topic of conversation. While some people enjoy them, homecoming signs may not be as harmless and fun as people assume. They can actually create pressure, awkwardness and unnecessary comparison, showing that signs aren’t always the best approach. 

Homecoming proposals with signs, especially in public, can unintentionally put pressure on everyone involved. When someone works hard to make a good sign or an elaborate proposal, it can make it very difficult for the person being asked to say no, even if that is the answer they want to give. Though the gesture may have good intentions, proposing with a sign can lead to awkward situations where people feel forced to agree, just to not hurt feelings. 

When someone does say no to a sign or grand gesture, the rejection often could become a public embarrassment. Even if the proposal happened privately, it would most likely become known eventually, causing embarrassment for both the person asking and the person declining. This could turn a well meaning proposal into a public embarrassment. 

“You don't want to embarrass yourself by making your sign to only [receive a] no, but you also don't want to put them on the spot,” ninth grader Nathaniel Tackas said. “[Rejection] makes it embarrassing for both people in the situation.”

Lastly, a large homecoming proposal can create uncomfortable social pressures between peers. When these large proposals happen, it is common that the majority will find out. As a result, students who don’t receive an elaborate proposal, or aren’t asked to homecoming at all, may feel left out. This can lead to unnecessary comparisons between proposals and extra pressure people put on themselves to get a date, leading them to feel bad when they may not have the same experience as others.

Some argue that homecoming signs can be fun, sentimental and create good memories. While this may be true, this excitement is not worth the potential embarrassment or stress that may come with a more public or special proposal. More private gestures can be just as meaningful, without creating pressure or awkwardness, which keeps homecoming a more positive experience for everyone. 

“I think asking the person beforehand is better,” Tackas said. “It might force the girl to say yes, despite not wanting to go, because she doesn't want to reject you in front of everyone.”

In the end, homecoming should be an enjoyable and stress free event for everyone. While fun signs and grand proposals may seem exciting, they can create pressure and embarrassment. There are many reasons why signs may do more harm than good, and why more private gestures can be better for everyone involved.