“OK Boomer” and Other Oversimplifications
I have so many incredible privileges in my job, one of which is that I get to talk to and learn from people all across the life span. I really enjoyed Jean Twenge’s Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Milennials, Gen X, Boombers and Silents—and What They Mean for America’s Future. Twenge’s book is a sweeping, data-driven exploration of the six living American generations and it offers profound insights into how historical, technological, and cultural forces have shaped not just attitudes and behaviors, but also the mental health landscape of each cohort.
One of the most compelling aspects of Generations is Twenge’s focus on the intersection of technology, family life, and mental health. As a therapist, I see daily how these forces play out in the lives of individuals and families. Twenge’s analysis is especially illuminating regarding Generation Z (born 1995–2012), a group that has come of age in the shadow of smartphones, social media, and a rapidly changing world. Her research shows a marked increase in loneliness, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among Gen Z, with a significant spike after 2012, coinciding with the rise of smartphones and social media usage. Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation also explores this age group.
Twenge’s commitment to debunking generational stereotypes is a refreshing antidote to the usual clichés. She avoids painting with a broad brush, instead offering nuanced, research-backed portraits of each generation. I appreciate her effort to move beyond simplistic narratives and instead focus on the lived realities and challenges faced by each group.
While her statistical neutrality is admirable, it can occasionally feel as though the complexities of race, gender, and systemic inequities are irrelevant. As a clinician, I know that these factors profoundly shape mental health outcomes, and a more intersectional analysis would enrich the discussion.
For therapists, Generations is a valuable resource for understanding the broader context in which our clients live. It encourages us to consider not just individual pathology, but also the societal and technological shifts that influence mental health. For example:
Gen Z clients may benefit from interventions targeting digital literacy, social connection, and sleep hygiene.
Millennials and Gen X may struggle with economic instability, work-life balance, and shifting family structures.
Older generations may face unique challenges related to aging, purpose, and adaptation to rapid change.
The book’s data-driven approach provides a solid foundation for empathy, understanding, and more effective therapeutic interventions. While it is not without its limitations, particularly regarding the treatment of social inequities, it is a powerful tool for anyone committed to supporting mental health across the lifespan.
