The sociological theory of a generation gap first came to light in the 1960s, when the younger generation (later known as baby boomers) seemed to go against everything their parents had previously believed in terms of music, values, government and political views as well as cultural tastes.

History Įarly sociologists such as Karl Mannheim noted differences across generations in how the youth transits into adulthood, and studied the ways in which generations separate themselves from one another, in the home and in social situations and areas (such as churches, clubs, senior centers, and youth centers). There are times however when people can cover that gap and understand their generation and the generation before/after them. The differences between each generation can cause misunderstandings because everyone faces different experiences. You can find generational changes regarding beliefs, politics, language, work, demographics and values. For other uses, see Generation gap (disambiguation).Ī generation gap or generational gap is a difference of opinions and outlooks between one generation and another.

Conflict between generations quotes