English Language and Linguistics: Generational Group Analysis

This assignment analyzes five generational groups: the Lost Generation, the Golden Generation (Baby Boomers), Gen X, Millennials (Gen Y), and Gen Z. It delves into the personality traits associated with each group, examining the historical and cultural contexts that shaped these characteristics. The Lost Generation, marked by the trauma of World War I, is contrasted with the disciplined Golden Generation, born after World War II. Gen X is portrayed as independent and adaptable, while Millennials are described as family-oriented and technologically savvy. Finally, Gen Z, raised in the digital age, is highlighted for its innovative and financially conservative approach. Each section provides insights into the societal shifts and experiences that contributed to the distinct traits of each generation, supported by academic sources.

Running Head: Generational Groups
English Language and Linguistics

Generational Groups
Lost Generation
The lost generation are referred to the people during the World War I or who became adults
during the World War I. The people were considered to be directionless or disoriented with the
belief that the people didn’t had any aim and were in great confusion due to the trauma of war.
They lacked the traditional traits of professional behavior, moral values and individual roles.
The major reason of being called lost is due to the fact that they had witnessed massacre at a
massive level so people had distorted visions and had unrealistic future visions in their minds
(Smith 169-219).
The Golden Generation
The Golden generation or the baby boomers were the people born after the end of the Second
World War having birth year between 1946 and 1964. People were said to be more disciplined
and mentally focused. Also, when it came to work they had a strong work ethic and never backed
down from putting a hard day at work. They possess the quality of being a team player and
competitive at the same time. These people grew up at a time when the world was going through
a drastic social change. This change embarked the generation with a strong cultural split
(Eickmeyer and Manning 826-840).
Gen X
Generation X comprises of the people born between 1965-1980. The Gen X professionals are
considered to be more flexible i.e. they are more transparent in adapting change and can easily
tolerate alternative lifestyles. Being independent is a common trait that defines the Gen X as they
are self-sufficient and resourceful. They are technologically adept and display a great comfort
level with smartphones, laptops and emails.
The Gen X were called the Latch Key generation due to the fact that during the societal shift and
childhood days, they were less exposed to adult supervision as the participation of their maternal
in workforce was increasing (Kraus 62-75).
Millennials
Generation Y also known as the millennials, are the people born between early 1980s and mid
1990s (1980-1994). Gen Y professionals are thought to be more inclined towards family and

Generational Groups
seek a better work/life balance. They want to be involved in a team work but are also in constant
search of spotlight. In contrast to Gen X, the millennials are more open minded towards the
topics that are controversial in nature (McDonald 90-103).
The Gen Y was exposed to technological ramification of internet and social media. Also, they
suffered the great Recession of their time and witnessed the incident of 9/11.
Gen Z
Succeeding the Gen Y, the Gen Z have the birth years between 1995 to 2019. These people are
often recognized by their heavy media consumption like internet, smartphones and TVs. They
also display a great innovative and entrepreneurial thinking and are often looking out for great
experience than great product. The Gen Z was exposed to internet at a very adolescent age and
had access to almost everything at the tip of their hands. They have seen the financial struggle of
millennials and have adopted a more conservative approach when it comes to finance (Shatto and
Erwin 253-254).

Generational Groups
Work Cited
Eickmeyer, Kasey J., and Wendy D. Manning. "Serial cohabitation in young adulthood: Baby
boomers to millennials." Journal of Marriage and Family 80.4 (2018): 826-840.
Kraus, Markus. "Comparing Generation X and Generation Y on their preferred emotional
leadership style." Journal of Applied Leadership and Management 5 (2017): 62-75.
McDonald, Noreen C. "Are millennials really the “go-nowhere” generation?." Journal of the
American Planning Association 81.2 (2015): 90-103.
Shatto, Bobbi, and Kelly Erwin. "Moving on from millennials: Preparing for generation Z." The
Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing 47.6 (2016): 253-254.
Smith, Rosi. "The lost generation." Education, Citizenship, and Cuban Identity. Palgrave
Macmillan, New York, 2016. 169-219.