Generations, like people, move through four distinct phases of life, each of which is approximately 21 years in length. When people (and generations) transition from one phase of life to the next, society and culture shifts.
Here’s a quick overview of these phases of life, looking at —
- The approximate age for each phase of life
- The primary social role a person/generation holds in each phase of life
- The primary relationship to societal values in each phase of life
- The primary relationship to societal institutions in each phase of life
Childhood
- 0-21 years of age
- Social role: Growth & development
- Acquire values
- Protected by institutions
Childhood is a time to —
- Grow and develop
- Play
- Learn
- Develop social skills
- Be nurtured and protected
In childhood, you acquire values from
- Parents and family
- Teachers and the educational system
- The media, news and “Hollywood”
- The government
- Businesses, faith groups and more
Young Adulthood
- 22-43 years of age
- Social role: vitality
- Test values
- Serve institutions
Young Adulthood is a time to —
- Leave the family nest
- Adventure into the outer world
- Launch careers
- Launch young families
- Serve in the military
Midlife
- 44-65 years of age
- Social role: power
- Apply values
- Manage institutions
Midlife is a time to —
- Teach
- Direct businesses and organizations
- Manage daily operations of society
- Parent
Elderhood
- 66-87 years of age
- Social role: stewardship
- Transfer values
- Lead institutions
Elderhood is a time to —
- Supervise as senior leadership
- Mentor younger generations
- Retire and enjoy your life
- Steward society and pass on values
Late Elderhood
- 88+ years of age
- Social role: dependence
- Remember values
- Supported by institutions
