Boomers Who Judge Younger People For No Good Reason Almost Always Complain About These 11 Things

"A great deal of modern research focuses on intergenerational conflict between baby boomers and their younger counterparts, including a study from the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin that states tensions often surface due to differing values and changing norms. Younger generations' attitudes are influenced by "realistic threat" - that boomers' actions harm their well-being and success - while older generations cultivate tension over "symbolic threats" to traditional values and norms."

"While some of these changing ideas and values are inherently personal, with truly valid arguments and emotions behind them, boomers who judge younger people for no good reason almost always complain about some other specific things. From technology to flawed perceptions of work ethic, these are the root causes of misunderstandings and tensions between many generations, families, and workplace environments."

"Although many boomers are active on social media and use the internet to make up for their lack of in-person socializing, as a Heliyon study explains, they still judge their younger Gen Z and millennial counterparts for their screen time. They judge phone habits and social media use as signs of a lack of "work ethic" or productivity, even if their judgments are simply driven by resentment."

Research links intergenerational conflict to differing values, changing norms, and perceived threats. Younger people often experience realistic threat, believing older generations' actions harm their well-being and prospects. Older generations often perceive symbolic threats to traditional values and norms. Many boomers direct resentment at younger generations by criticizing technology use, screen time, texting instead of calling, and perceived declines in work ethic. These complaints, whether rooted in valid concerns or unfounded judgment, fuel misunderstandings across families and workplaces. Addressing communication styles, technological differences, and underlying perceptions can reduce tension and improve intergenerational relations.

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