I am often asked when does Gen Y end and what comes next? Because they are still children, there is room for debate as to when Gen Z start(ed) and what it will be like. Some say it began as early as 1991, but I would say later -- today's 18-year old looks like a Millennial to me. Some say it started in 2001 with 9/11, which would slam this group with a very unfortunate name.
What will define Gen Z is a more interesting and relevant question. In the absence of any real data, the temptation is to say that Gen Z will be just like Gen Y only moreso. I doubt it. Every generation so far has had unique qualities based on the times they were raised and prevailing parental attitudes. Those who ascribe to the Fourth Turning generational theory predict Gen Z will be a second 'Silent Generation'. This may prove to be true, given their common roots in a depression/recession.
There are some clues to be gained by watching Gen Z's parents, mostly Gen X'ers, but also late Boomers and early Gen Y's. These parents take 'helicopter' parenting to new heights. It's been said, never to allow work to get between a Gen X mom and her child. Until recently, these kids have had the best of everything technology and money can buy. Mintel data shows the best predictor of use of organic foods and locally grown foods by far is presence of children. Gen X puts 'time for family' among its top values.
In the end, there's really no way to really know yet how the combination of super-parenting and recession will influence Gen Z, but it will be fascinating to watch.
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Carol
ReplyDeleteThis is a question I am always asked to and I like the 2001 date as it has them growing up in a crisis which means they will be different from Gen Y. I like the Howe and Strauss definition which has Gen X starting at 2001...
I see the difference finding Gen Z to me more down to earth and realistic - perhaps living in an organic revolution has made them much more "ethical". I also see them big on fairness in a different kind of way than Gen Y. But as you say time will tell.
Thanks for bringing up the subject I to look forward to how they influence society.
I have a Y and Z in my house so I get to see first hand :-)
Sarah
Parenting Generation Y and beyond
http://www.theteencoachblog.com
Carol,
ReplyDeleteAs usual, you have a timely piece. I have been getting the " what's the next generation question" as well - more so lately. The folks over at Generational Differences Consulting (http://www.gendiff.com) and Twitter name MillennialWatch, call the next generation born from 2002 on the "Homeland Generation". As we all know events during the formative years shape each generation. For this Homeland Generation, growing up during the "War on Terror", being a family member during the worst economic downturn, and seeing the inauguration of the first Black President will certainly be pivotal events. We'll see what else the future holds.