Generational Contrasts: A Comparative Analysi...

Generational Contrasts: A Comparative Analysis of Resilience, Interpersonal Communication, and Life Values in Gen X and Gen Z

Author Name : Neelam Mishra, Hariom Sharma, Rashi Garg

ABSTRACT This quantitative research study investigates differences between Gen X and Generation Z (Gen Z) on the constructs of resilience, life values, and interpersonal communication. A sample of 120 participants, comprising 61 individuals from Gen X (26-41 years old) and 61 from Generation Z (12-25 years old), was randomly selected. The study employed the Interpersonal Communication Inventory (Bienvenu), Life Values Inventory (Brown and Crace), and Nicholson McBride Resilience Questionnaire (NMRQ) to measure the respective constructs. Data analysis, conducted using a T-test through SPSS, revealed a statistically significant difference between Gen Xand Gen Z in two sub-dimensions of life values: financial prosperity and scientific understanding. However, no significant differences were found in resilience and interpersonal communication constructs. The study suggests that despite some differences in specific life values, Gen X and Gen Z share similar levels of resilience and interpersonal communication skills. Future research could explore the underlying factors contributing to the observed differences in life values and investigate how these variations impact other aspects of their lives. Additionally, a more nuanced investigation into the role of societal, technological, and cultural influences on these generational differences may provide valuable insights. The study's limitations include the dependence on self-report measures and potential recollection biases, and the need for caution in generalizing findings beyond the selected age groups. Prospective studies might overcome the aforementioned limitations by using longitudinal methodologies and a larger set of variables to gain a better understanding of generational dynamics.