Generation X: Measures, Sex and Age Differences

Abstract

The popular press has labelled the current groups of 19- to 29-yr.-olds Generation X, the postbaby-boomers, and suggested they possess attitudes and values different from those of their predecessors, the baby-boomers. This investigation examined the prevalence of Generation X attitudes and values among a sample of 216 Canadian business students. 83 women and 133 men undergraduate and graduate students anonymously completed questionnaires. The sample's mean age was 21.7 yr. Respondents reported values and attitudes somewhat consistent with Generation X characterizations, women having more of these qualities than men. Younger students tended to hold values and attitudes more consistent with the Generation X depiction.