A cultural identity approach to the generational divide

Abstract

Some scholars have argued strongly against the idea that differences between generations are responsible for intergenerational conflict, calling for organisations and policymakers to do away with the notion of generations altogether. The current review argues that generations are an important social identity and makes the case for why generational identity should inform policy, despite inconsistent empirical evidence for generational differences. Drawing on cultural psychology and social identity theory, we find parallels between how racial and ethnic identities shape how people interpret and respond to racial diversity and so-called racial and ethnic “differences”, and how generational identity influences people's attitudes and behaviours in age-diverse environments. Comparing three intergroup ideologies relevant to cultural diversity, colourblindness, multiculturalism and polyculturalism, we contend that polyculturalism will best serve age-diverse workplaces by promoting positive intergenerational exchange through deeper appreciation for the dynamic nature of “generational culture” and the interconnectedness of generational groups.