As in other former Communist countries, the penetration of Western mass culture and the general cultural decline are common subjects of discussion in Slovakia. As in the rest of Europe, the word "Americanization" is often heard, frequently in connection with the output of children's publications and children's programs on television. These topics are being debated by artists and journalists.

However, they do not appear to be a pressing concern for people interviewed who are directly involved with children and youth.

On the other hand, teenagers definitely do not perceive any decline in culture. This is especially true of people in their 20s who still have vivid memories of the repression exercised under the Communists against certain types of music and styles of art and who can also appreciate the value of freedom in these areas. The situation is similar for books. Although publishers are struggling with the problem of the low purchasing power of the public, they do not seem to be losing the battle, given their rising numbers. Most publishers rely on the strategy of issuing a few commercially successful titles which can cover the cost of other projects with a high artistic value, but loss-making in commercial terms. Independent radio stations are a new element on the cultural scene. Most of these broadcasters target teenagers and listeners in their 20s (FUN-Radio, Radio Ragtime).

Obsolete infrastructure for the arts and entertainment is considered a problem in many communities. Moreover, the state is typically responsible for this infrastructure, and the facilities which depend on this infrastructure tend not to cater to young people. The staff of these facilities has often remained unchanged for decades.