Belonging to a Generation Summary and Analysis

A generation is defined as "a cohort group whose length approximates the span of a phase of life and whose boundaries are fixed by peer personality" (p.60). Length, for this purpose, means a phase of life of approximately twenty-two years. Thus:

Elderhood = ages 66-87, with a general role of being stewards, that is, mentors, values transmitters, and supervisors.

Midlife = 44-65, with primary role of leadership. These individuals are parents, teachers, and managers of organizations and institutions.

Rising Adulthood = 22-43, whose primary roles are work, starting families, serving under managers and testing traditional values.

Youth = 0=12, with a role of dependence. They are growing and learning, being protected and nurtured from rising adults and midlifers, as well as acquiring values.