Communication barriers are eminent between Baby Boomers and Generation Z, thus posing severe challenges that determine how information is passed between the two groups. Due to the communication challenges, the groups need help to pass information, relay information, and create rapport during conversation. Therefore, the issue must be addressed, and structure strategies to enhance smooth information flow between the two groups. However, the essence is to explain the distinct features specific to these generations and address the communications gap between them. Pásztor et al. (2020) evaluated that the focus lies on the particular expressions of the variations of communicative ways and tastes that affect their relationship. The definition of this research problem is essentially the first stage of dealing with the issues and possibilities that characterize intergenerational communication. Moreover, it forms the basis for integrating information generated from related courses under my significant areas of study.
According to Debb et al. (2020), Baby Boomers were born between 1946 and 1964, and they usually exhibit more traditional patterns of communication like face-to-face interactions Contrary to that, Generation Z, defined as individuals born around the mid-1990s until early 2010s, possess what can be referred to as a digital-native mentality,ividuals communicating mostly via technological means or social media. These fundamental differences are critical in understanding the complexities of their communication and actions. The communication gap is reflected in many areas, including selecting a communication channel with linguistic and cultural references (Debb et al., 2020). The exploration explains these differences to identify points of friction and misunderstandings, thus providing the basis for appropriate reconciliation solutions.
Venter (2019) evaluated that Baby Boomers born in an analog age are sometimes overwhelmed by the fast-changing digital environment, which Genz readily accepts. The differences in technological fluency are mirrored in communication choices, and Baby Boomers might lean toward old-school messengers. In contrast, generation Z tends to go straight for a text or a shout-out on Instagram (Venter, 2019). Besides that, the nature of communication differs significantly, whereby Generation Z may use memes, emojis, and colloquialisms, whereas Baby Boomers use a formal way of expression. Untangling these complexities builds the base for deciphering the differences and the distinct capabilities different groups bring into the communication world.
Knowledge from my minor departments, especially Communication Studies, has been vital while searching for ways of filling the communication gap. These courses, such as CMST 1150 and CMST 2060, have taught theory and required practice in dealing with diverse communication styles. Having learned the historical and rhetorical views in my studies, I can trace and understand the basis for generational communication choices and eventually develop strategies for making them compatible, as Holman (2021) evaluated. Moreover, my Digital Studies/ Library & Information Science coursework, including LIS 2000 and LIS 4900, has enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of what constitutes the digital environment, leading me to propose ideas on how to deal with issues facing this particular generation while The latter is an interdisciplinary approach that combines the insights and constitutes a guiding principle on how to develop all-inclusive communication strategies in a multi-generation environment.
In addition, I am better equipped to understand how societal changes and cultural transformations have affected communicative behavior across generations through the history course units. Taken courses like HIST 3071 or HIST 1001 show the historical context of ethnical and cultural diversities, which allow us to understand their influence on communications practices and values between Baby-Boomer and Gen Z. The strategies that are outlined will be more nuanced if the historical roots from which the communication dynamics emerged are acknowledged.
Applying communicational theories in this interdisciplinary research may lead to understanding why this generational difference exists and how it can be mitigated. For example, Communication Accommodation Theory states that people’s communication style adjusts to make it more straightforward, as it explains why generational dissimilarities shape communicative tastes, making it possible for one to suggest appropriate tactics. For example, the understanding that Baby Boomers could adopt a compensatory strategy to match their communication patterns with Generation Z enables the development of comprehensive and flexible communication methods, as evaluated by Andersen et al. (2021). Such theoretical insights add depth to the interdisciplinary endeavor as it seeks to understand the complexities of bridging that communication gap.
Conclusion
Through Communication Studies, Digital Studies/Library, and Information Science as well as History, an interdisciplinary journey is provided to comprehend the Baby Boomers vs. Generation Z communication gap. Defining the problem precisely, analyzing what makes each generation unique, and finally, Based on theoretical bases learned in communication studies, practical skills gained an informed knowledge of the digital terrain from digital studies, and historical perspective attained from History, an integrated synthesis constitutes a strong base for articulating viable recommendations. The latter allows me to create communication strategies connecting generations and enhancing intergenerational transactions’ diversity.
References
Andersen, K., Ohme, J., Bjarnøe, C., Bordacconi, M. J., Albæk, E., & De Vreese, C. H. (2021). Generational gaps in political media use and civic engagement: From Baby Boomers to Generation Z (p. 250). Taylor & Francis. https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/42390
Debb, S. M., Schaffer, D. R., & Colson, D. G. (2020). A reverse digital divide: comparing information security behaviors of generation Y and generation Z adults. International journal of cybersecurity intelligence & cybercrime, 3(1), 42-55. https://vc.bridgew.edu/ijcic/vol3/iss1/4/
Holman, L. E. (2021). Crossing the Generational and Digital Divide: Accommodating the Learning Experience of Generation Z (Doctoral dissertation, Morehead State University). https://search.proquest.com/openview/3615c7f52ad294de166604339e898713/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
Pásztor, J., & Bak, G. (2020). Digital divide: A technological generation gap. Management, Enterprise and Benchmarking in the 21st Century, 158-168. https://search.proquest.com/openview/0b5e4c7b66713c980909a54509bf8582/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2045995
Venter, E. (2019). Bridging the communication gap between Generation Y and the Baby Boomer generation. International journal of Adolescence and Youth, 22(4), 497-507. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02673843.2016.1267022
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