A Summary of the Benefits of Intergenerational Connection

A founding principle of Positive World, Positive People, is connection. Forming bonds with one another is fundamental to a positive livelihood. In podcast episodes, discussions about the benefits of connection have occurred; however, developing a further understanding of particular components of connection requires additional information. Most conversations about connection on PoWoPoPe relate directly to teenage connections; ways to build and strengthen friendships and relationships. Compared to everything discussed thus far, there is another realm of building beneficial connections outside of generational relationships—intergenerational connections. 

Intergenerational connection has proven to be advantageous for a multitude of reasons. Similar to generational associations, it establishes emotional support and personal growth. Unlike generational associations, they strengthen community ties and decrease the likelihood of negative stereotypes such as ageism. Furthermore, intergenerational connections not only benefit youth members but also older generations. According to a paper, “Sadly, around 50% of adults in the U.S. reported being lonely in recent years—and that was even before COVID-19” (Murthy). Overall, intergenerational connections assist society as a whole, and learning to develop them as teenagers is critical. 

A key factor when creating a successful relationship is trusting that the other person can be there on an emotional level. Whether it is a friendship or a relationship, connections require depth and understanding of the other person. Intergenerational relationships, in particular, are surprisingly helpful in emotional support and personal growth. For instance, when comparing intergenerational education to a structured education system, particularly in terms of proper emotional skills. Most schools do not offer classes for youth members on how to foster emotional comprehension; however, this comprehension is necessary for development. “These skills are essential to optimizing attitudes, behaviors, and strategies for maneuvering in a socially complex and increasingly high-tech world" (Yotopoulos). Intergenerational connections replace this missing piece of education by offering wisdom to advance a youth member's emotional understanding. These connections help youth members see perspective and spread valuable advice about the future. 

Additionally, intergenerational connections create a widespread communal bond. For many teenagers, most of their relationships are with those in their generation. This generational connection stems from common factors: school, work, and extracurricular activities. Youth members then form these associations more frequently because they are surrounded by others similar to them, making it easier to connect. Nonetheless, teenagers who test their comfort and expand their bonds beyond their generation have a greater impact on society. When teenagers take the initiative to form bonds with other generations, they create a greater sense of community. An article by the University of Florida Department of Psychiatry & Aging, “These connections help foster a sense of community and bridge the gap that typically forms between age groups” (Opportunities for Connection). Intergenerational relationships tighten communal bonds by breaking down stereotypes and promoting generational inclusivity.

Respect for older generations has been prominent for many years. For example, across Asian countries, Confucianism was the structure for elderly care and respect. Over time, however, such principles that prioritize these core values slipped away, making stereotypes a more common occurrence. A stereotype is “a standardized mental picture that is held in common by members of a group, and that represents an oversimplified opinion, prejudiced attitude, or uncritical judgment” (“Sterotype”, def. 2). Fortunately, unlike most components of life, intergenerational relationships tear down stereotypes. Bridging bonds between generations alleviates tensions and creates new spaces for understanding. An article starts that these connections, “[...] promote understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect through direct contact and shared experiences[...]As a result, both younger and older participants gain a deeper appreciation of each other's values and challenges” (The Benefits of). In all, these connections act like glue, bringing everything together.; making a positive alliance and environment for all of humanity. 

Currently, intergenerational connections are not prioritized. Life gets in the way, and building bonds with those around us is much simpler; however, that does not mean the youth can overlook their benefits much longer. From fostering emotional and personal growth to building community bonds and lowering the likelihood of stereotyping, intergenerational relationships contribute a multitude of powerful benefits. In conclusion, each youth member should build intergenerational connections and realize their importance; each one has more positive effects on life than they seem.