Reality bites: Generation X in New Zealand

Abstract

This thesis studies 'Generation X' in New Zealand. Derived in North America, Generation X are those born approximately between 1960 and 1980, are well educated and middle class, and are said to have a number of defining characteristics and issues of concern. Many of the supposed characteristics of Generation X are negative - cynical, lazy, apathetic and pessimistic to name just a few. Supporters of the generation however, claim Xers to be realistic, positive, and greatly misunderstood. New Zealand Generation Xers have grown up in times of great social, political and economic change. The women's movement, vast technological advancement, the introduction of user-pays health and education, and an economic depression have all made a significant impact on young New Zealanders. Today, twenty-somethings are facing increasing student debt and education costs, high youth suicide rates, the destruction of the environment, education inflation and under and unemployment. A qualitative research approach was used to gain data relating to New Zealand Generation Xers. 9 tertiary students/graduates were interviewed, 8 in focus groups and 1 individually. Interviews were focused on a character profile of the North American Generation X, which participants discussed in relation to themselves. Four main issues were identified from the interview data; money and debt, career and work, balancing family and work, and environmental issues. Relating to these were personal characteristics such as apathy, personal optimism and collective negativity. Social work and social policy need to be concerned with Generation X and its issues. The incidence of certain characteristics, such as high rates of suicide, foretell of the negative consequences of an increasing competitive and materialistic society, consequences which may be even more dire in future generations if change does not occur.