FAMILY COMMUNICATION: MAKING THE GENERATION GAP SMALLER

People from different generations often live and work together. Sometimes they are happy to be together, other times they are not. One of the reasons for their unhappiness is generation gap. Generation gap is the difference between ideas, interests and beliefs of people from different generations. These differences can cause problems but experts believe that a good communication between generations helps everyone get along.

Good communication between the generations starts in the family. There are two ways of communication: one-way and two way styles. Many families are changing their communication style from “one-way” to “two-way” to have a better communication between family members.

The Jackson family uses the “one-way” style of communication. Mr. and Mrs Jackson love their children but they do not get their opinion when they make a decision. Instead, they make the decisions or make all the rules and tell them to the kids. They do not discuss their opinions or decisions with their children. Children understand their parents and do as they say. They don’t questions their parents’ decisions or argue with them. The communication goes one way: from the parents to the children.

The Page family uses the “two-way” style of communication. They always ask for their children’s opinions. They discuss problems and feelings. When they need to make a decision, they ask their children what they think. The family rules are also made together. This communication goes two ways: from parents to children and from children to parents.

Better communication at home means better communication at school and also at work. When generations try to listen and understand each other’s problems or disagreements, they can be solved easily. When generations understand each other it makes their relationship stronger and healthier.