By Maryam Usman
In the 1960s, generation gap gained attention in a sociological theory. Generation gap is the age gap and the difference in cultural views leading to lack of understanding between people belonging to different age groups. As defined in the Cambridge dictionary “a situation in which older and younger people do not understand each other because of their different experiences, opinions, habits, and behavior” (dictionary.cambridge.org, 2020)
The generation gap is not widely recognized as a significant issue on a global scale due to parallel language constraints, creating a communication barrier. However, the issue remains unacknowledged, despite its presence, in society. It restricts people from different geographical backgrounds from easily assimilating into new environments, primarily due to differences in customs and rituals. One might often wonder why the never-ending debate over which culture is best persists. The answer lies in the generation gap, and if no action is taken, it might lead to problems at an international level. Issues can also arise within a nation as individuals from different schools of thought, often with significant age differences, no longer see situations in the same light, leading to opposition even when neither party is inherently wrong.
“Generational differences fuel much of current social and political tension in Western Europe and the United States over globalization, nationalism and immigration, according to an in-depth analysis of results from the Pew Global Attitudes surveys.” (Pew Research Center’s Global Attitudes Project, 2004)
Very few research works and surveys have addressed this issue, which is increasing day by day, and despite its significance, little attention is given to the matter. The goal of this research work is to create awareness about the growing generation gap in our societies.
Today’s families are facing a higher number of conflicts due to age and perspective differences. Since people from different religions and beliefs coexist in the same society, they tend to gradually adapt each others customs which is highly discouraged by those of older times and hence variances start to develop domestically.
The Southeast Asia is the area which had a conservative society but with the passage of time it has evolved, and the coming generation holds views opposite of those of their ancestors. Today, women are encouraged to speak up for justice, which clashes with traditional gender roles. Hence, the emergence of a new ideologist groups.
Recently, the relationship between parents and children has become frail as working parents are overburdened at work and rarely find the time and energy to sit and talk with their children one-on-one. While teenagers and children have come to enjoy the company of gadgets more than interacting with their parents.
The generation gap is also expanding not only because of the limited communication but the fact that generations are losing respect for their elders, as the evolution of higher levels of education have developed a sense of superiority in them. Rapid changes in mobility and society also contribute to the gap, as individuals from previous generations struggle to adapt to new technologies and ways of life, a common human trait that resists change.
The primary cause of the widening generation gap is the divergence in thought patterns between two generations, although several other factors also play a role.
The consequences of the generational and cultural gaps are far-reaching as they effect households and impact generations to follow.
These cultural differences may contribute to the increasing divorce rates particularly when partners come from contrasting backgrounds. For instance, if one partner hails from a modern family while the other grew up in a conservative and strict household, their mismatched mindsets can lead to conflicts and the stressful environment not fostering the ideal household for their offspring.This often results in children moving away and losing touch with their cultural roots.
The open advocacy for topics primarily revolving feminism and women empowerment, especially in rural areas, are not endorsed by the elderly as they wish to uphold their traditions where women role are restricted to being the house makers.
The Southeast Asian culture celebrates a variety of festivals like Eid, Dewali etc. However since covid-19 we have abstained from enjoying these occasions communally, but often celebrate them in isolation at home. As we grow apart the way of sending condolences has also evolved as in this modern era, the primary means of offering solace is through text messages, a departure from the customs of our ancestors which involved being available for those struggling with losses by being actively present. This change in practices has not been well-received, highlighting a growing disconnect among the community.
“Today, understanding the reality of the existing gap of generation has become a problem and concern for both parents and children since parents’ attitude about shared values is not so same as children’s one. These beliefs and values are so sacred before parents while these are not acceptable for children; therefore, this difference related to problems and gaps between generations is shaped.” (Behroozi and Pashakhanlu, 2016)
The generation gap results in various consequences, with one of the most significant being the growing disconnection between children and parents. Even if they are not in regular communication, the parent-child relationship is a strong and unbreakable bond, and the absence of contact affects individuals both mentally and emotionally.
This paper presents how arguments are converting into disputes over the years. Parental pressure, expectations of the society forcing certain careers upon their children and as a result they are left lost and suffered. This ultimately creates a gap between them. In a nutshell, we find that the gap between two generations tremendously develops and both parties find it crucial to grapple this transformation.
I believe this is a two-sided problem and both parents and children are responsible for it and to overcome it both parties will have to coordinate and adjust accordingly. They need to acknowledge and be accepting of the others’ opinions. This research was conducted to emphasize that if we don’t address this problem soon, our society may further diverge and not be able to stand the power of the enemy, as this scenario is becoming increasingly common in the Southeast Asia.
The increasing generation gap is significant emerging issue in our society these days, which has not gained attention. The purpose of this research work is to create awareness about the generation gap and the lack of understanding between children and parents. It is the main reason of growing distances between us, but alas little work has been done on this topic. It is essential that we address this issue to ensure the unity and strength of our society in the face of external challenges.
Reference list
Aggarwal, M., Rawat, M.S., Srivastava, S., Singh, S. and Gauba, P. (2017). 973 Generation Gap: An Emerging Issue of Society. [online] Research Gateway. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320183778_973_Generation_Gap_An_Emerging_Issue_of_Society [Accessed 3 Nov. 2019].
Behroozi, M. and Pashakhanlu, R. (2016). Abnormal and Behavioural Psychology. [online] Available at: https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/surveying-the-gap-of-generation-between-two-generations-ofmothers-and-high-school-girl-students-in-bushehr-city-regarding-theircom-2472-0496-1000124.php?aid=82666 [Accessed 27 Aug. 2020].
dictionary.cambridge.org. (2020). THE GENERATION GAP | meaning in the Cambridge English Dictionary. [online] Available at: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/generation-gap [Accessed 6 May 2020].