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A generation gap is a popular term used to describe wide differences in cultural norms between members of a younger generation and their elders. According to the dictionary definition by freesearch, the generation gap (noun) occurs
"when older and younger people do not understand each other because of their different experiences, opinions, habits and behaviour."
The term first came into prominence in Western countries during the 1960s, and described the cultural differences between the Baby Boomers and their parents. Although some generational differences have existed throughout history, during this era differences between the two generations grew significantly in comparison to previous times, particularly with respect to such matters as musical tastes, fashion, drug use, and politics. The disparity may have been magnified by the unprecedented size of the young Baby Boomer generation, which gave it unprecedented power, influence, and willingness to rebel against societal norms.
The 1960s saw several examples of generational differences. Rock music and soul music, popular among youth, were mostly detested by their elders. Parents frequently viewed long hair on young males as a shocking act of rebellion against societal norms. Large scale protests against the Vietnam War on American college campuses contrasted sharply with earlier almost-universal national support for World War II. Traditional sexual mores were crumbling under the weight of the sexual revolution. Drug use increased among young people, and many youths "dropped out" into the hippie counterculture. Although these examples do not apply to all young people, the differences were pervasive enough to cause significant friction in society.
Baby Boomers had a strong sense of generational identity during this period. A common catchphrase was "don't trust anyone over 30." This sentiment was also expressed by The Who, in their anthem "My Generation," in which the narrator sang, "Hope I die before I get old." The influence of the Baby Boomers was so significant that the entire generation was named "Man of the Year" by Time magazine in 1966.
In the 1980s, and even more so the 1990s, many have made note of a widening rift between Baby Boomers and Generation X, with the latter often accusing the former of having "sold out" their 1960s-era ideals and advocating a moral crackdown on the latter's allegedly wild, undisciplined behavior. This theme became an important element in what some commentators have labeled the Culture Wars.
In both instances, another generation is often seen as standing in between the two engaged in argument, either identifying with both sides' assertions or neither. In the 1960s the Silent Generation was frequently described as the group filling this role, with the Baby Busters occupying a similarly intermediate position in the more recent Baby Boomer-Generation X feud.
Despite the sharp divides between generations, cross-generational friendships and cross-generational sexual relationships are common. An example of this characteristic is provided in the novel Looking for Alibrandi by Marlina Marchetta, in the relationship Josephine and her grandmother "Nonna." For quotes see pages 75 and 221.
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