Generation Gap
There is a natural gap between the thinking and perceptions of younger people and older people. This gap is noticed in almost every society and family. This is called the generation gap. The old people in society have fixed views about all matters and this makes them rigid. They usually stand for the voice of reason, tradition and connection. They often refuse to change with the young and continue to hold on to their often obsolete ideas and they become obstinate.
They usually find the “new wave” shocking and revolting. They feel that the young are corrupt and usually too liberal. They find youngsters irresponsible, insensitive and easily corruptible. However, they forget that it is the lack of years of experience that makes the Youngsters seem so. While in fact the Young only represent change and revolt against the set tradition and way of life.
The young mind on the other hand is analysing all that the old people stand for They are full of questions about the existing norms in society and refuse to follow these blindly. They argue that they cannot be expected to follow the established system simply because their elders laid them down. Due to the various developments in science and technology in the world in general, there is a great need for the young people in each society to keep abreast with the changing trends.
However, they usually find a conflict between what the media, the newspapers project and the values that they see their parents and elders upholding. The older generation usually represents a life of simplicity and austerity. They are more patient, tolerant, sympathetic, charitable and pious. They depend heavily on religion for their peace of mind. Youngsters find religion a waste of time because their minds are restless and they have less patience too.
Their young blood makes them rash, hot-tempered, impulsive and these are the qualities that upset the older generation. The young always want to change the way .of the world with their new vision and vigour. The difference of opinion between the two gives rise to friction. Both hold on to their ideas and this results in the generation gap.
This gap can be bridged if both attempt to be sympathetic towards the others’ point of view and in fact be open-minded enough to assimilate the best that is prevalent on both sides of the fence.
