In these days almost every father or mother would be heard saying to his or her son or daughter : "In our time we used to eat like this and dress like this and do like this." Some children would meet these remarks with silence, some with contempt, some with ridicule, while some with open revolt. Their response to their parents' precepts is reflected in the famous so g papa don't preach.
Modern children differ from their parents' in their dress, eating habits, interests, attitudes and ways of talking, behaving and thinking. Elders do not like this. They want the youngsters to follow them in every way. This leads to a difference of opinion between the youngsters and the elders. This is called the generation gap. Generation gap is the difference in the tastes, attitudes, thinking, manners and behaviour of the members of the two successive generation. The elders represent the passing and the past generation, the youngsters represent the new and the coming generation.
The generation gap has become quite marked in the modern times. In the past, especially before the industrial revolution, life was almost stagnant. Children obediently followed the life style and the profession of their fathers. Obedience was considered to be a virtue among children.
But things have been changing in modern times. People are on the move. Means of communication and travel have developed. So the youngsters come into contact with people from different parts of the world either directly or indirectly. Their influence is reflected in their changing life style. Moreover, modern youth is more independent, assertive and open. He want to do what he believes in. He wants to live the way he likes. He does not want anybody to interfere with his life style or to Impose his views or ways on him. If an attempt is made by elders to do so, he resents it, he refuses to be dictated, he revolts. The result is the open disagreement between him and his elders. This disagreement leads to intolerance which may result in quarrels, or even breaking up of the family.
The remedy lies in mutual respect and tolerance. Elders must respect their children's individuality and should not interfere with their way of living. The should desist from direct preaching. Youngsters also should understand that their parents are, after all, their well- wishers, and therefore they should shown show more respect and patience.If they disagree with their presents, they should, by all means, tell them plainly, but there is no need to be rude and angry. Firmness would carry weight if it is a accompanied by politeness. If possible, children should explain to their parents the reason for their particular behaviour or style and try to understand their parents objection. Such an attitude would bring them nearer and reduce the generation gap. It would remove the friction and the tension resulting from the generation gap.
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