Read Text 2 and copy out the key words which will help you in future discussion.

The generational gap is /and was/ a term popularized in Western countries during the 1960s referring to differences between people of a younger generation and their elders, especially between a child and their parent’s generation. Although some generational differences have existed throughout history, because of more rapid cultural change during the modern era differences between the two generations increased in comparison to previous times, particularly with respect to such matters as musical tastes, fashion, culture and politics.

As the 1940s ended and the 1950s emerged, marked differences between teenagers and parents began to emerge. From a transformation of the dating system (going steady and early marriage became the norm, as opposed to the “rating and dating ” trend that was fashionable before the war), to the new medium of television gaining widespread popularity and often portraying teenagers as juvenile delinquents. The War in Southeast Asia, and the rise of counter-culture hippies as well as the use of drugs were significant topics of the generation gap of this era gave it unprecedented power and willingness to rebel against social norms.

The TV series focuses on the generation, as a conservative-minded middle-aged man repeatedly quarrels with his independent-minded wife and staunchly liberal daughter and son-in-law.

The 1970s and 1980s are characterized as being an era rampant with child neglect, as shown by such phenomenon as latchkey kids. This period lies between the family-oriented 1950s and 1960s and the “Baby on Board” parenting – focused era of the late 1980s to the present.

In the 1990s and 2000s, cultural differences concerning what should be the sexual norm, as well as new technology, political differences, workplace behavior, age of consent, age of responsibility, the education system, and many other political, cultural, and generational issues, has produced a generation gap between Generation X and Y and their Baby Boomer parents. However, many Baby Boomers grew up during the late 1960s, and can relate to their young offspring better than their parents related to them and are more willing to tackle subjects such as drugs and sex with their children. Nevertheless, the portrayal of teenagers in popular reality television channels, like MTV, has caused concern for parents and a sense of alienation amongst teens and young adults of today.

2. Answer the questions. Don’t forget about the key words.

1. How did the term “generation gap” appear?

3. When did the differences between teenagers and parents begin to emerge? Why?

4. How can the 1980s be characterized?

5. What problems do the generations of 1990s and 2000s have to tackle?

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