Generation X

Understanding Generation X: A Cohort in Transition

Generation X is a demographic cohort that has been defined by researchers as people born from 1965 to 1980. With approximately 65.2 million Gen Xers in the United States, this generation grew up during a time of shifting societal values and influences such as alternative rock, hip hop, punk, post-punk, rave, and heavy metal music. They were also known as the ‘Latchkey Generation’ due to free-range parenting and increasing maternal participation in the workforce.

But what exactly does it mean to be a Gen Xer? Are you part of this generation if your parents are Baby Boomers or Millennials? Let’s dive into the details that make up this unique demographic group. Are you curious about how Generation X shaped and was shaped by their environment?

The Birth of a Term

The term ‘Generation X’ was first used in the 1950s by Hungarian photographer Robert Capa, but it gained popularity after Canadian author Douglas Coupland’s 1991 novel ‘Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture.’ The book defined the generation as born in the late 1950s and 1960s. Author William Strauss noted that the term emerged around the time of its publication, following significant changes in popular culture, fertility rates, and societal trends.

The ‘X’ symbol represents an unknown variable or a desire not to be defined, highlighting the group’s reluctance to conform to established labels. This generation was previously referred to as post-Boomers, Baby Busters, the New Lost Generation, latchkey kids, the MTV Generation, and the 13th Generation.

Defining Years

In various countries, including the U.S., Gen X spans from 1965 to 1980. The Pew Research Center found that the Gen X population born from 1965 to 1980 numbered 65.2 million in 2019. In Australia, the McCrindle Research Center uses 1965–1979, while in the UK, the Resolution Foundation think tank defines Gen X as those born between 1966 and 1980.

U.S. authors William Strauss and Neil Howe define Generation X as those born between 1961 and 1981 in their 1991 book Generations, and divide the cohort into two waves. Jeff Gordinier, in his 2008 book X Saves the World, includes those born between 1961 and 1977 but possibly as late as 1980.

Shaping a Generation

The Gen X childhood coincided with the sexual revolution of the 1960s to 1980s, leading to an increase in latchkey children. The rapid influx of Boomer women into the labor force contributed significantly to this phenomenon. Some older Gen Xers became socially and politically conscious during the Reagan Era, embracing laissez-faire economics.

During their adolescence and young adulthood, Gen X was often labeled as ‘slackers,’ cynical, and disaffected. However, research at Stanford University in 1998 found that Gen X young adults did exhibit higher levels of cynicism and disaffection than previous cohorts, but this was not unique to them.

Adulthood and Beyond

In midlife, Gen Xers were described as balanced, active, and happy, achieving a work-life balance. They reported high levels of happiness, with 29% scoring as ‘very happy’ (9 or 10 on a scale). Only 4% indicated great unhappiness, and the median score was 8.

Generation X is characterized as independent, resilient, resourceful, self-managing, adaptable, cynical, pragmatic, skeptical of authority, and seeking work-life balance. They are entrepreneurial generations who ‘just quietly do their thing,’ unlike Boomers’ tendency to trumpet their accomplishments more loudly.

Global Impact

Globally, Gen X is shaped by real-world events, cultural industries, and global currents. In Russia, they are referred to as ‘the last Soviet children’ due to their upbringing during the Soviet era. In France, Generation X roughly corresponds to those born in the early 1960s to the early 1980s.

In Ireland, Gen X refers to people born between 1965-1985 and grew up during The Troubles and the economic recession of the 1980s. They came of age during the Celtic Tiger period. Culturally, Generation X in Ireland was influenced by Britpop, Celtic rock, Father Ted, and rave culture.

In the UK, Generation X is described as ‘Thatcher’s children’ due to growing up under Margaret Thatcher’s conservative government from 1979-1990. They grew up during a period of social unrest and economic transformation.

Conclusion

Generation X, with its unique blend of experiences and challenges, has left an indelible mark on society. From the rise of alternative music to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives much of today’s economy, this generation continues to shape our world in profound ways. As we look back at their journey, it becomes clear that Generation X is more than just a demographic; they are a testament to resilience and adaptability.