Why the Gen X Parenting Style is Different from Our Parents
For many of us, our childhood memories consist of long summer days spent playing outside until the streetlights flickered on, while our parents did little more than remind us to be home for dinner. This style of parenting, commonly referred to as the “latchkey” generation, was prevalent among baby boomers.
Fast forward to today, and we see a stark contrast in the way parents of Gen X are raising their children. While still hands-off in many ways, Gen X parents are far more involved in their children’s lives. So, what changed? Why is the Gen X parenting style different from our parents?
New focus on child development
One of the primary reasons for the shift in parenting style is a new focus on child development. Research has shown that young children benefit greatly from parental presence and involvement as they navigate the challenges of early life. As a result, many Gen X parents have made the choice to prioritize their children’s development over their own careers and interests.
This heightened level of personal sacrifice is largely driven by societal pressure to be good parents, coupled with the knowledge that children are highly impressionable during their formative years. Gen X parents today want to ensure they’re doing everything they can to set their kids up for success.
Technology’s effect on parenting
Another significant difference between the parenting styles of Gen X and our parents is the role of technology. For baby boomers, technology was a luxury that afforded them more free time to spend on their own interests. For Gen X, it’s a double-edged sword.
On the one hand, technology has made it easier for parents to keep tabs on their children. From GPS-enabled smartphones to home security cameras, there are now countless ways for parents to ensure their kids are safe and accounted for. On the other hand, technology can also be a huge distraction.
Many Gen X parents struggle to balance their own screen time with that of their children. They worry that constant phone use and excessive screen time will negatively impact their child’s development. As a result, Gen X parents are more likely to embrace a “screen-free” lifestyle and limit their children’s exposure to technology.
Conclusion
In many ways, the Gen X parenting style is an evolution of the parenting style our parents embraced. We’ve taken what worked, such as promoting self-sufficiency and independence, and incorporated new research-backed strategies for child development.
The result is a style of parenting that is uniquely suited to the needs of our children. While it comes with its own challenges, including the ever-present threat of burnout, most Gen X parents feel confident that they’re doing the best they can for their kids. As we continue to navigate the exciting, yet sometimes daunting, world of modern parenting, it’s important to remember that we’re all in this together.
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