People Share Trends And Interests Popular Among Youth That Middle-Aged People Can't Grasp

We all know how it goes - older folks always find something to complain about when it comes to the younger generation. It's like a never-ending story.

The older folks grumble, the younger ones roll their eyes, and the cycle continues. The young ones grow up, and suddenly, they're puzzled by the behavior of the next generation, wondering why they're acting so strangely and why their music sounds like noise.

Recently, there was a big discussion on the internet about this. It happened on a website called Reddit, in a place called r/AskReddit.

Someone named u/VisibleConfusion12 started a conversation that got a lot of attention. They asked a simple but interesting question: "What do young people like that older folks just don't get?"

People from all over the internet chimed in with their thoughts, and we are here to share some of the things they had to say. This Reddit discussion shows that the generation gap is alive and well, even on the internet.

Young people are into new things that older folks might not understand. But it's important to remember that each generation is shaped by its own experiences, and what seems weird today might become normal in the future.

As we look at these comments, we can notice that there's always a gap between generations. The comments on this Reddit post show that this gap is still very much there, even on the internet.

1. "Declaring everything is a result of a mental illness. Sometimes people are just a******s."

religionlies2u

2. "The unending need to share everything on social media, including their meals, their children, their partners everything. "

Aggravating_Boy3873

3. "Talking loudly with your phone on speaker while in public. Older people do it, too. WTF is *that* all about?"

CGB_Spender

Generational Differences in Interests

Generational shifts in interests and trends often create a divide between age groups, which can be understood through the lens of cultural transmission theory. Dr. David Buckingham, a researcher on youth culture, explains that each generation develops its own cultural norms, often in reaction to the previous generation's values. This cyclical pattern can lead to misunderstandings and frustrations among different age groups, particularly regarding music, fashion, and social interactions.

As younger generations embrace new trends and technologies, older generations may struggle to relate, leading to feelings of alienation. Research suggests that this disconnect can be attributed to differing values and communication styles, which can create a rift in understanding and appreciation.

4. "Social media celebrities. "

Existing_Ganache_293

5. Long a*s fake nails.

"How do you even go to the bathroom with those things without hurting yourself? They’re not even attractive. I don’t get it.

Edit: To be clear, I’m talking LONG here, like inches long. I have longish natural nails and I love getting them done, but I’ve seen people with nails that are over 2 inches long and I don’t understand how you can be productive with nails like that. I’m not mad about it, I just honestly don’t get the hype."

curiouskitten42

6. "Life hack"

"The videos where they say it's a "life hack" when it's just common sense.

Aka "try out this crazy life hack for perfectly cut bagles, EVERYTIME!"

Proceeds to use a bagel cutter.

Like, seriously??? You need someone to tell you that?"

muncho

According to an article in the Journal of Youth Studies, the rapid pace of technological advancement has significantly influenced generational differences in interests. Young people today are often more connected through digital platforms, which shapes their social interactions and cultural references. As a result, older generations may find it challenging to engage with or even comprehend these evolving interests, leading to feelings of disconnection.

7. "Film random strangers without consent to make fun of them online all for internet 'clout'. "

Lizgreyisoficial

8. Fake eyelashes

OneCrew2044

9. people instead of calling them. Unless you have to show me something, I prefer not to show my face on screen '

BuscemiLuvr

The Role of Communication in Bridging Generational Gaps

Effective communication plays a crucial role in bridging the generational gap. Psychologists argue that fostering open dialogues between generations can enhance understanding and appreciation of differing interests. Dr. Robert Putnam's research on social capital suggests that shared experiences and discussions can strengthen bonds across age groups, leading to more harmonious relationships.

Encouraging intergenerational activities—such as family game nights or collaborative projects—can create opportunities for learning and connection. These experiences not only allow for shared enjoyment but also promote mutual respect and understanding.

10. "The public tik tok dancing."

"All these s****y prank videos on people in public.

The public tik tok dancing.

I can't handle the second hand embarrassment when someone is dancing in aisle 5."

MiseryLovesMisery

11. "Extravagant proms and baby showers. "

ThatBlackGirl93

12. "Filming themselves crying. "

Proteinoats

It's also important to recognize that each generation's interests reflect their unique experiences and societal contexts. Studies show that understanding the historical and cultural factors that shape these interests can lead to greater empathy. Engaging younger generations in conversations about their interests can provide valuable insights and help older generations appreciate the context of these trends.

13. It just being different

"The Andrew Tate style of misogynistic alpha male b******t that so many young men seem to buy into. I guess I kind of get how they're susceptible to that sort of stuff, but the ideology doesn't really make much sense.

I think most of the rest of the stuff like tik tok, hairstyles, and clothing is just a "kids these days" kind of thing where people aren't open minded enough to realize the stuff they were into as kids was seem as being just as stupid by the older generation. Because really, it boils down to it just being different and new."

Interesting_Pudding9

14. still young, but Mukbang videos. I like cooking shows, but watching someone pig out on camera is just gross. "

PubicKnitting

15. every little thing. Like why are they filming them doing basic stuff like grocery shopping? "

AdrianValistar

Practical Steps for Encouraging Intergenerational Understanding

To foster intergenerational understanding, families can create spaces for open discussions about interests and preferences. Regular family meetings or informal gatherings can serve as platforms for sharing experiences and perspectives. Additionally, involving younger family members in decision-making or planning activities can help them feel valued and respected.

Moreover, exploring shared interests or creating new family traditions can bridge the gap between generations, allowing for the blending of old and new. This collaborative approach can strengthen family bonds and cultivate a shared sense of identity.

16. to anybody people don't like as narcissistic. Every form of lying or even just disagreement is gaslighting. "

GreenDogTag

17. new Disney remakes. "

chairUrchin

18. "Listening to the music on mobile speaker while walking around the street or travelling via public transportation "

luchilu

19. Self diagnosing

Usual_Quiet_6552

20. It's not cool to be stupid

"As a teacher, I get enormously annoyed by the idea that it seems cool to be stupid for a significant amount of teens. Like being actually proud of lacking or pretending to lack basic knowledge or primary skills. Over the last 2 weeks I had a 14 y old pretending not to know who the figure of Christ was, a kid claiming not to know how to use a ruler and one who claimed to never have used scissors…

Update: 5 min ago a 14y old asked me wether pigs have ears…"

django2605

21. reaction videos."

riptydeco

22. "I really hate the TikTok voice. "

Ohhhhhhthehumanity

23. idea that shame shouldn’t exist. "

mrinkyface

24. Putting everything online.

Mtanderson88

25. unboxing videos. "

TargetPlastic7505

26. A robot voice reading out Reddit

"I dont understand certain genres of tiktok/YouTube videos. Who is entertained by those videos where it's a robot voice reading out reddit comments while subway surfer is being played on screen? Who is the audience for those videos where some dude with an awful haircut asks people risqué questions either on a college campus or at the beach?"

PhreedomPhighter

27. Mumble rap

chicken_tendy_bandit

28. Starbucks & Underage girls dancing on TikTok

Moist_Extension7751

29. Being illiterate

Daskcrew1978

30. In the middle of a Home Depot.

Superman246o1

31. Prank

kosherkate

It's like a never-ending game of "Why are the kids these days so darn confusing?" The older generation scratches their heads while the younger generation just keeps doing their thing.

But here's the kicker: what seems baffling today will probably make perfect sense tomorrow. Just think about it; someday, you might catch yourself saying, "Back in my day, we had REAL music" while your grandkids roll their eyes and plug into their holographic VR concerts.

Psychological Analysis

This situation exemplifies the common generational divide that many families face today. It's vital to approach these differences with curiosity rather than judgment, recognizing that each generation's interests are shaped by unique experiences. Encouraging open conversations can help facilitate understanding and appreciation across age groups.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Understanding generational differences in interests is essential for fostering harmonious family relationships. Research consistently shows that open communication and shared experiences can bridge the gap between age groups. By creating opportunities for connection and mutual respect, families can navigate these differences more effectively.