Chapter III- Cohort

Generation and Cohort Theory

  • Definition of Generation:

    • Common age location in history and collective peer personality.

    • A cohort of people born within a specific period.

  • Generational Cohort Theory:

    • Classification based on shared historical experiences across various life stages such as schooling, employment, and retirement.

    • Shared age bracket influences personality and behavior (Strauss & Howe, 1991).

    • Beliefs, values, and behaviors develop from shared political, economic, and social events in early life (Inglehart, 1997; Pew Research Center, 2015).

    • Individual philosophies shaped by the period of birth (Ryder, 1965).

The Generations

  • Greatest Generation (1901-1927)

    • Characteristics:

      • Grew up under strict rules, experienced depression.

      • Value loyalty, patriotic, focused on duty.

      • Motivated by legacy and practicality.

  • Silent Generation (1928-1945)

    • Characteristics:

      • Emphasizes sacrifice for the greater good, traditional values.

      • Politically active and loyal to authority.

      • Strong work ethic with loyalty to employers.

  • Boom Generation (1946-1964)

    • Characteristics:

      • Grew up in more nurturing environments, rebels against tradition.

      • Advocates for social change and champions diverse causes.

      • Known for emphasis on personal success and career advancement.

  • Generation X (1965-1980)

    • Characteristics:

      • Independent and skeptical, often raised in non-traditional families.

      • Strong value on work-life balance and self-reliance.

      • Tech-savvy and adaptable to change.

  • Generation Y (Millennials) (1981-1995)

    • Characteristics:

      • Values civic duty and social consciousness.

      • Tech-oriented and focused on personal achievements and growth.

      • Expect quick results and flexibility at work.

  • Generation Z (1996-2010)

    • Characteristics:

      • High proficiency with technology, politically engaged.

      • Emphasizes diversity and is open to new ideas.

      • Seeks validation and immediate feedback in workplace.

  • Generation Alpha (2011-2025)

    • Characteristics:

      • Expected to be highly educated and technologically immersed.

      • Exposed to sociopolitical issues from a young age.

      • Values creativity, collaboration, and social equity.