Generations in the Workplace

Generations in the Workplace:

A Sociological and Psychological View: Can’t we all Get Along?

Scott Moses

Table of Contents

Abstract ………………………………………………………………………. 3

Summaries and Critiques …………………………………………………….. 3

Analysis ……………………………………………………………………… 10

Application of Findings ……………………………………………………… 13

Conclusion …………………………………………………………………… 15

References ……………………………………………………………………. 16

Abstract

Within the past few years, an interesting phenomenon has been taking place in the workplace. This is the mixing of three different generations, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and the Millennial Generation or Generation Y. Never before have three different generations with such different values, expectations, and societal and psychological differences been thrust together to work as a team and forced to get along with each other. This paper will attempt to explain these differences and how to possibly overcome these differences.

Summaries and Critiques

1st Article: Young workers’ work values, attitudes, and behaviors.

According to Loughlin and Barling (2001), young workers are the workforce of the future. This paper focuses on 2 major influences on their work values, attitudes, and behaviors; the influences of their families and their work experience. Most of the emphasis is directed toward their work experiences and how these experiences shaped the workers values, attitudes, and behaviors.

As of 2001, 67% of Austrian youths, between the ages of 15-24, were in the workforce. In Denmark, the percentage is 75%; Sweden 63%; and North America 80%. Parents and teachers have traditionally supported this employment. They think that this will decrease teenage alienation, increase responsibility, and ease the transition from adolescence to adulthood (Greenberger & Steinberg, 1986).

In the past, it has been difficult to research the work habits of young workers for 2 reasons. The...