Generation X, children of Baby Boomers, is perhaps a unique generation that has been the most discussed and criticized to date. They have been early viewed with negative assumptions as slacker, cynics, and pessimists. Many descriptions about Generation X’s poor work ethic have expressed to be lazy, arrogant, and irresponsible. Yet when coming to training, and retaining, they are particularly described as best employees with unique skills and talents in the different kind of work environment. In order to have a clear understanding of Generation X controversy, the review of media myths in different period of time about this generation should be considered. Contrary to many criticizing and misconceptions of generational differences, Generation X are recognized as hardworking, creative, and self-confident employees in the professional workplace.
Four related resources are used to explain the Generation X’s unique story. First is a speech “The Real Generation Gap”, written by Marianne M. Jennings, a Legal and Ethic Studies and Business professor at Arizona State University about the expansive gap between Baby Boomers and Generation X. By identifying five gap areas: skill, knowledge, critical thinking, work ethic, and morality in which students in Generation X have most troubles, Various researches have been done to describe the generational gap subject between Baby Boomers and Generation X. One of them is a common speech “The Real Generation Gap” written by Marianne M. Jennings, a Legal and Ethic Studies and Business professor at Arizona State University.
The Generation Gap
Acknowledgements Completing this S.B.A would not have been an easy task if done by myself. I thank my cousin for providing the necessary assets in order for me to do my S.B.A and also for being there constantly encouraging me to do my work. I thank my mother, who motivates me to do well in my school work, for helping me in the completion of this assignment. My friends have also been a help to me ...
In her speech, Jennings identifies five different areas: skill, knowledge, critical thinking, work ethic, and morality in which Generation X students have most troubles. Particularly in the work ethic gap, she While concentrating on the work ethic area, Jennings reveals Generation X’s irresponsibility and selfishness as many of them decide to enjoy the available living conveniences supported from family instead of achieving one for their own. For this reason, she starts to question their obtaining intentions of “The desire for independence” (308).
Work Cited Jennings, Marianne M. “The Real Generation Gap.” Perspectives on Contemporary Issues. 3 rd ed.
Ed. Katherine Ackley. Boston: Thomson Heine, 2003. 304-312.
