Generation Gap
Generation Gap is a term given to the gap or age difference between two sets
of people; the young people and their elders, especially between children and
their parents. Everything is influenced by the change of time- the age, the
culture, mannerism, and morality. This change affects everyone. The
generation gap is an endless social phenomenon. Every generation lives at a
certain time under certain circumstances and conditions. So, all generations
have their own set of values and views. Every generation wants to uphold the
principles they believe in. This is a problem that has continued for ages.
People born in different periods under different conditions have their views
based on the circumstances they have been through. The patterns of life have
been changing continuously according to time. Everyone wants to live and
behave in his way and no one wants to compromise with his or her values and
views. There has always been a difference in attitude or lack of understanding
between the younger and older generations. This attitude has augmented the
generation gap and it is becoming wider day by day. This gap now has started
impacting our lives in the wrong way.
It is always good to have a wide range of ideas, views, and opinions. It
indicates how we are developing and advancing but sometimes this becomes
worrisome when the views and ideas are not accepted by both generations.
Parents create a certain image in their minds for their children. They want to
bring up their children with values that they have been brought up with and
expect their children to follow the same. Parents want children to act following
their values, as they believe, it is for their benefit and would do well for them.
Children on the other hand have a broader outlook and refuse to accept the
traditional ways. They want to do things their way and don’t like going by any
rulebook. Mostly, young people experience conflict during their adolescence.
They are desperately searching for self-identity. Parents at times fail to
understand the demands of this fast-paced world. Ultimately, despite love and
affection for each other both are drained out of energy and not able to
comprehend the other. Consequently, there is a lack of communication and
giving up on relationships.
Main problem caused by generation gap.
Generation gaps can impact relationships between family members
of different generations. As younger generations are growing up in
a mobile, fast-changing world, they experience changing values and
attitudes that do not fit with the general traditions that are held by
their parents or grandparents
Major causes of the generation gap.
Poor communication.
There is a big difference between the lifestyles of the youngsters
and the adults.
Different backgrounds.
Different cultures. ...
Some of the older generations are exposed to much education
compared to the younger generation.
Deterioration of respect. ...
Technological gap.
Solutions to reduce the generation gap
There are several ways in which the generation gap between children and their
parents can be reduced:
Improving communication. This is the best way to increase understanding of each
other hence reducing the generation gap.
Dealing with mismatches. Identifying some mismatches in the family and working
on them will reduce the generation gap.
Keeping up with trends. For parents, it is important to update your thoughts on the
current issues concerning your children like technology.
It is important for parents to give ample time to their children. This will build their
relationship, and they will understand each other more.
Children and parents should both give each other space. This helps to increase the
respect and value of each person’s thoughts.
In a home setting, an equal vote should be given to everyone regardless of their age.
This makes everyone feel appreciated and united.
Cultivating love in relations. This brings everyone closer, and children are not
tempted to drift away from their parents.
