My generation, which tends to range from high school age to early 20s, gets a lot of criticism and judgement. I blame a lot of this on the fact that our daily lives consist of a heavy use of technology, which a lot of older generations just don't connect with. But even besides that, we get accused of being arrogant, lazy, entitled, reckless, selfish, and dependent. While some of these my be true for some adolescents, the same could be said for some adults. We ALL have flaws, and no generation is better than the other. These same negativities were said about the generation before us.
When it comes to technology, my generation is often ridiculed for our constant use of it. While I do agree that some people (including some adults) are addicted to it, it has still become a necessary part of living in society today. Besides, it is not our fault that we grew up in a world that relies on it. For example, laptops/computers are vital school supplies, especially in college, where online classes are becoming more common. A good chunk of my homework assignments involve the use of a computer. Cell phones have become a way to not only contact people via text and/or phone call, but also a way to check bank accounts, email, coupons, and make lists of things to remember. It has also become the primary way to take casual pictures. I guess I don't really understand why the use of technology is considered such a "bad thing."
I see a lot of this on the internet, where older generations take advantage of news involving troublesome teens/young adults, and they say things like "youths today" or "high school/college students are so entitled these days." I get frustrated when I hear those things because in fact, a lot of use are not like that. I, as well as many other college students, have at least one job while also going to school full time, paying bills, and honestly just trying to figure out how to make it in the world as adults. I certainly do not get things handed to me, and I work for the things I do have. I know the same goes for most of my peers.
Sometimes I honestly just feel like our opinions are not only disrespected, but also looked on as defiant. Whenever we want to get our word in or stand up for our beliefs, we get shut down because we "aren't old enough to understand." But the thing is, we are not little kids anymore. We are on the verge of adulthood, and our words and actions can make just as much as a difference.
Maybe it is just because I am still considered in the younger generation, but I don't know how anyone could forget the struggles that come with going from kids to teens to young adults to adults. I guess what I really want is more respect and understanding because everyone has been through it at some point in their lives. Besides, soon, my generation will be the ones making all of the decisions.
