Skip to main content

Bridging the Generational Gap: Understanding Gen Z's desire to be Heard



By Sr. Lydia M. Okang’a


Generations come and go leaving a permanent mark on the world. In our present era characterized by generational differences, we witness a departure from the traditional dynamics where elders held unquestionable authority. In times past, the younger generation would listen more and speak less when elders spoke. However, this paradigm is shifting.
Today, we find ourselves navigating a landscape where Generation Z have stepped onto the stage with a desire to be heard, to be acknowledged by their older counterparts. As the world undergoes rapid transformation, Gen-Z seeks recognition and mutual understanding from the older generations. They aspire to be understood just as the older generation yearns for reciprocation in this shared journey through the changing world.

This generation, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is characterized by its tech savvy, a result of growing up in the age of smartphones and social media. Their worldview blatantly contrasts with that of the older generation, which came of age with limited or no exposure to technology. The influence of their experiences on social media platforms shapes their thinking.

Consequently?

Consequently, generational differences lead to a clash of values between Gen-Z and the older generation. While the older generation may perceive the younger ones as lacking in values, the younger generation consistently feels excluded. Their plea is for dialogue, an opportunity to contribute, be heard and understood as equals during decision making. They are asking to also sit on the table where decisions are made.

Conversely, the older generation feels disrespected and discriminated against by the younger one. They, too, desire to be listened to, included, and respected by the Gen-Z.

How can the older generation and the Gen-Z co-exist?

Photo Courtesy

For these diverse generations to co-exist harmoniously, there is a crucial need for mutual acceptance of their differences and an appreciation for the unique perspectives each brings to the table. Engaging in open and respectful dialogue is paramount in bridging the generational gap. While the elders contribute wisdom drawn from their life experiences, Gen Z brings in fresh perspectives and creative solutions to contemporary problems.

It is evident that Gen Z’s desire to be heard is not a clash but an invitation to build bridges between the generations. This bridging can be achieved through open dialogue, respect for diverse thoughts, and the embracing of empathy. By doing so, these generations can coexist harmoniously, forming a society that treasures lessons from the past, as well as creativity of the future.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Impact of Parental Separation and Divorce on Teenagers: A Call to Action for Parents and Caregivers

  By Sr. Lydia M. Okang’a   The Emotional and Psychological Impact on Young People In a quiet neighborhood in Nairobi, a family was torn apart by a divorce that left both parents and their teenage child emotionally bruised. James, a 15-year-old boy attending a reputable high school, had always been a bright student with a promising future. His parents, once a loving couple, started arguing frequently over financial struggles and personal differences. After months of tension, the inevitable happened—his parents divorced, and his world turned upside down. James’s father moved out of the house, leaving his mother to care for him and his younger sister. The separation took a toll on everyone. His father, overwhelmed with the emotional and financial strain of starting over, withdrew from being an active presence in James’s life. His mother, while trying to be strong for her children, struggled to make ends meet, and the stress impacted her relationship with them. The emot...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Children We Overlook

By Cynthia Khanijiri As you drive along the Nakuru–Eldoret highway, a familiar scene plays out daily. Very young children line up along the roadside, while some run after cars and public service vehicles selling sugarcane, roasted maize, water bottles, among other things. In the eyes of a passerby, it may seem like a harmless hustle, even an admirable initiative. Those who have a bit of conscience may sympathize with them, and that’s the end of it. As harmless and as insignificant as it may seem, it continues to be a deeper crisis that Kenya continues to normalize, child labor. It’s easy to overlook. After all, millions of children in Kenya attend school, and the assumption that the child labor crisis is under control persists. But if you take a closer look, you will realize that some of those same children will leave class and head to building sites. Others will rise before dawn to sell goods on the roadside, or spend weekends helping parents in quarries, or gold mines. Worse still,...
Post a Comment
Read more

Empowering Young Voices: The Children's Right to Play Project Takes Flight

  By Caroline Kabugi Play is more than just fun it’s a fundamental right that every child deserves. Understanding the need to champion this right, Loyola Centre for Media and Communication (LCMC) undertakes this initiative on Children’s Right to Play Project in schools. This initiative isn’t just about talking it’s about inspiring action . Through education, performance arts, and community engagement, students are being equipped to stand up for their rights and become advocates for a better future. The project recently kicked off in two schools in Nairobi , where a total of 70 students eagerly embraced the mission. Through thought-provoking discussions, interactive learning, and the creative power of artivism , they are stepping forward as the next generation of child rights defenders. The sessions introduced students to the importance of the right to play and its role in child development , the connection between decent work for adults and the prevention of child labor ...
Post a Comment
Read more