Are Generation Alpha kids less respectful than other kids?

If you asked my parents, they would say the eye-rolling, stubbornness, and back-talking I endured from my Alpha generation daughters was “karma.” When things don’t go well, I close the door with gusto. If my mom dared comment on my style, I would have no problem throwing a tantrum at her in a department store dressing room. I can roll my eyes into my head and surprisingly they aren’t trapped there.

But that’s the difference between me and my 9-year-old daughter. I was defiant because, that’s what my errant middle hormones told me to do. And, might I add, it feels safe to vent aggression against family members—whether rightly or wrongly. I would never dare challenge a teacher or stand up to any adult who was not my parent—even if I vehemently disagreed with their views.

Maybe part of the reason is that I’m a member of Generation When Beast Boy said so).

I think about it a lot because my daughter’s defiance (and her Generation Alpha peers) feels different. Of course, they’re both pre-teens – that doesn’t change. Yes, they may act disrespectful, or they may act entitled. We even call them “honey badgers” because they come across as fearless and willing to challenge the status quo. But is this tenacity born out of disrespect, or is there something deeper?

misunderstood generation

The perception that Generation Alpha is more disrespectful than previous generations may be a product of changing social dynamics rather than a generational trait, said Catherine Nobile, Psy.D., founder and director of Nobile Psychology.

“Compared to previous generations, Generation Alpha grew up in an era when global issues were highly visible, multiple viewpoints were frequently disseminated, and digital tools enabled them to express their views from an early age,” Dr. Nobile explains. “All of these factors may make it more difficult or challenging for them to appear in front of authority than their parents would like because they are doing things that show they are willing to question conventional practices and assert their own opinions.”

Yes, it is common for older generations to view younger generations with suspicion and confusion. Especially when the boldness, independence, and outspokenness of Generation Alpha are viewed as “disrespectful” by some older generations (Generation X, Baby Boomers), who have been influenced by conservative concepts of respecting authority and following rules since childhood.

“Yet many of the characteristics of Generation Alpha stem from the environment in which they grew up—a world that embraces self-expression, celebrates emotional intelligence, and questions convention,” Dr. Nobile said. “One of the most important differences is that, unlike previous generations, Generation Alpha is more likely to fight authority than accept it. Previous generations may have been inclined to say, ‘Yes, sir,’ ‘Yes, ma’am. ”, “Okay” or “Whatever”, whereas Generation Alpha is more likely to ask: “Why can’t you explain this to them?” ‘No, I wouldn’t do that. That’s what I do.

Therefore, when they say “no,” it may be seen as disrespectful, when in fact it is an expression of their desire to interact more meaningfully with the world.

Generation technology

We must not forget that Generation Alpha’s use of technology as part of the school curriculum is unprecedented, from smartphones to tablets to online use. So, of course, this shapes their behavior; Generation Alpha kids are the true digital natives.

“They have access to more information and different perspectives from an early age, which develops their sense of independence and a strong voice,” says Kelly Oriard, a licensed family therapist and co-founder and chief therapy officer of Slumberkins. Welcome All Feelings: Parenting Practices for Raising Loving, Confident, and Resilient Children. “While this is sometimes seen as challenging authority, it is also a sign of their increased confidence and critical thinking, qualities we should be cultivating.”

Dr. Nobile agrees, reminding parents that Generation Alpha has greater access to information and communication from an early age than any generation before it.

“This exposes them more to ideas and global issues, which may make them more socially aware and more willing to stand up for their opinions,” Dr. Nobile said. “Such outspokenness could be mistaken for a lack of respect for traditional values ​​or authority.”

Let us not forget that their creative use of the English language (or rather their own language) (i.e. slang) largely stems from social media.

What parents and educators need to know

Generation Alpha’s boldness and confidence can become values ​​to be admired and encouraged, as long as they are fostered in a way that promotes respect, empathy and responsibility.

“The secret is to help Generation Alpha strike a balance between confidence and confidence, strength and toughness, self-confidence and bullying, self-esteem and arrogance,” Dr. Nobile said. “Parents and educators need to teach them to speak confidently, but also to listen to others and see through their eyes.”

This helps prevent Generation Alpha’s strength of character from turning into strength of will, which can lead to feelings of entitlement or even arrogance.

Parents and educators can also support these characteristics by modeling respectful communication, reinforcing the value of collaboration, and teaching children that being assertive does not mean being insensitive to the opinions or feelings of others.

“By building confidence and empathy, we work to develop Generation Alpha into adults who know how to assert their own needs and goals and recognize the value of respect and cooperation in achieving shared goals,” said Dr. Nobile.

Oriard wants parents to remember that each generation, including Generation Alpha, has its own strengths and challenges.

“For us, it’s not a question of whether they respect it more or less; it’s a question of whether they respect it. It’s about understanding the world they grow up in and helping them develop into the best version of themselves,” she explains.