ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the reasons for the generation gap, and how it affects relationships in the family. It also explores why the generation gap exists. The chapter looks at some of the consequences of the generation gap. It addresses how parents and young people can reduce the gap, or at least acknowledge that it is acceptable to have different attitudes. However, when discussion turns into conflict, and when this leads to communication breakdown, then the generation gap can cause serious problems. There are a number of consequences that flow from disagreements between the generations. In the first place, such disagreements contribute to a feeling on the part of the teenager that he or she is not respected by the parent. Clearly, if the young person feels resentful about the way the parent is judging their behaviour, this can only lead to further conflict and bad feelings in the family.
