Generation gap

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A generation gap is a popular term used to describe wide differences in cultural norms between members of a younger generation and their elders. This can be defined as occurring "when older and younger people do not understand each other because of their different experiences, opinions, habits and behaviour." [1]

Contents 1 History of term 1.1 1920s 1.2 1960s 1.3 1980s

[edit] History of term

The term first came into prominence in Western countries during the 1960s, and described the cultural differences between the Baby Boomers and their parents. Although some generational differences have existed throughout history, during this era differences between the two generations grew significantly in comparison to previous times, particularly with respect to such matters as musical tastes, fashion, drug use, and politics. The disparity may have been magnified by the unprecedented size of the young Baby Boomer generation, which gave it unprecedented power, influence, and willingness to rebel against societal norms.

[edit] 1920s

During what was known as the 'Roaring Twenties' a large generation gap occurred due to the older generation having just fought in the war finding it innapropriate that the younger were out at dancehalls and listening to jazz music.

[edit] 1960s

The 1960s saw several examples of generational differences. For example, Rock music and soul music, popular among youth, were mostly detested by their elders. Parents frequently viewed long hair on young males as a shocking act of rebellion against societal norms. Large scale protests against the Vietnam War on American college campuses contrasted sharply with earlier almost-universal national support for World War II. Traditional sexual mores were crumbling under the weight of the sexual revolution. Drug use increased among young people, and many youths "dropped out" into the hippie counterculture. Although these examples do not apply to all young people, the differences were pervasive enough to cause significant friction in society.

Baby Boomers had a strong sense of generational identity during this period. A common catchphrase was "don't trust anyone over 30." This sentiment was also expressed by The Who, in their anthem "My Generation," in which the narrator sang, "Hope I die before I get old." The influence of the Baby Boomers was so significant that the entire generation was named "Man of the Year" by Time magazine in 1966.

[edit] 1980s

In the 1980s, and even more so the 1990s, many have made note of a widening rift between Baby Boomers and Generation X, with the latter often accusing the former of having "sold out" their 1960s-era ideals and the former advocating a moral crackdown on the latter's allegedly wild, undisciplined behavior. This theme became an important element in what some commentators have labeled the Culture Wars.

In both instances, another generation is often seen as standing in between the two engaged in argument, either identifying with both sides' assertions or neither. In the 1960s, the Silent Generation was frequently described as the group filling this role, with the Baby Busters occupying a similarly intermediate position in the more recent Baby Boomer-Generation X feud.

The MTV Generation, known also as a cusp generation could also be considered a generation gap, being the bridge between the fall of Generation X from the late 70s up until the mid 90s, the early stage of Generation Y. Young adults who are now entering their prime from their 20s to 30s are noted for their disillusionment in regards to their place in a Generation Y-dominated society and a post-Generation X authoritative media.