THE generation gap problem is prevalent and convoluted. More
often than not, we see the older generation grumbling about how the
young have lost sight of Asian values.
There is a ring of truth to their thinking, but with
technological advancements, it is normal for the young to hold more
global and Westernised views.
There is a large abyss between the older and younger
generations. For example, a grandfather might view online games and
the Internet as a waste of time. He is blind to the fact that
online games help to establish useful IT skills, which may help a
person become more computer savvy.
Moreover, social networking websites may be perceived as an
addictive and frivolous diversion from studies and family bonding,
but they actually help prevent youngsters from becoming introverts.
And websites like Yahoo and Google keep them in touch with current
affairs.
This trend shows how the young have taken up new ways of keeping
themselves occupied that the older generation would never have
imagined back in their time.
The older generation could attempt to keep in tune with
teenagers, instead of blaming them for being different. They could
put away their archaic habits and better accept the new generation.
There will always be overarching generation gap problems, but we
should alleviate tensions between the old and the young.
Carissa Tan (Miss)
-- ST Forum