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In a study that many of us could have predicted without a second thought, researchers in the Journal of Psychology and Aging discovered that Baby Boomers exhibit greater sensitivity compared to Millennials, along with higher levels of traits typically associated with narcissism. It’s hardly surprising that a generation responsible for the rise of multi-level marketing schemes, the presidency of Donald Trump, and chain restaurants like Applebee’s would demonstrate more “hypersensitive” behaviors than a generation that champions issues like marriage equality, marijuana legalization, and pathways to citizenship for undocumented individuals.
Dear Debbie and Carl, your precious little ones are rolling their eyes right now—much like we do when you ask us to “fix” your streaming device so you can binge-watch endless episodes of a veterinary reality show. Spoiler alert: when you ask us to “fix” your Roku, we often hang up and shed silent tears of frustration.
Take a moment to browse articles discussing Millennials in the workplace. I’ll wait. You call us “spoiled,” “lazy,” and “entitled.” Perhaps we come across as entitled when we express our grievances about how Boomers have impacted our environment and their reluctance to make changes while continuing to contribute to climate change. Give us back our rainforests, Susan! And how exactly are we entitled? Because we believe our neurodivergent, diverse friends deserve the same rights and protections? We feel entitled to “strongly advocate for comprehensive LGBT nondiscrimination policies.”
While Boomers are set to retire around ages 66 to 67, many of us may end up working until retirement age, likely in a precarious gig economy fostered by corporate takeovers. You can call that spoiled, Larry, but we won’t see the Social Security benefits you’re collecting from a program that you refuse to support. We’re living in our parents’ basements not out of choice, but because we can’t afford a home.
Understanding Narcissism and Hypersensitivity
The study involved 747 participants, making it the largest examination of narcissistic traits to date. It revealed that while narcissism tends to decrease after age forty, older generations start with a higher baseline of narcissism than younger ones. Boomers, in particular, ranked high in “defensiveness” or “hypersensitivity.” This hypersensitivity is defined as an inability to accept feedback from others and an inclination to react with anger toward any criticism.
So, when we advise Carol and Larry to reconsider driving their oversized gas-guzzler for solo grocery runs, or to take a second look at certain conspiracy theories, they often react with anger and stubbornness. This resistance is how we end up with dangerous beliefs and persistent narratives, such as:
- The American Dream: Anyone can achieve anything!
- The Bad Immigrant: They’re the reason we can’t find jobs!
- The Bad Black People: They just need to stop rioting. And what’s this ‘BIPOC’ nonsense?
- Political Correctness Is Nonsense: Using the term “politically correct” doesn’t mean I’m a racist!
Boomers often reject critical examination of these cherished narratives, digging in their heels instead—leading to the perpetuation of harmful myths.
The Challenge of Willfulness
The study also indicated that Boomers scored higher in “willfulness,” or the tendency to impose their opinions on others. In simpler terms, it means you want everyone to conform to your beliefs, and when we don’t, you get upset and resort to name-calling and fits of anger. Think of Trump and his social media antics. Many Boomers, particularly those hesitant about COVID-19 vaccines, seem to rely more on social media than reputable news sources for information.
Willfulness not only makes Boomers more likely to impose their views, but it also makes them less tolerant of differing opinions. While Millennials may be more accepting of choices that don’t infringe on others’ rights, Boomers often feel the need to judge. For instance, a surprising 31% of employers would be less inclined to promote someone with visible tattoos, while 37% would hesitate to promote someone with piercings. It’s astonishing how much a tiny nose ring could supposedly affect job performance—especially when many Millennials are struggling to find decent employment.
In Conclusion
We’ve long recognized that Boomers exhibit narcissistic tendencies. How else can we explain the inability to tackle climate change or the bloated defense budget? While it’s true that narcissism tends to diminish with age, there’s still significant progress needed. Linda, do you remember the part in “Land of Confusion” where it’s said that “My generation will put it right”? You seem to have made Phil Collins a liar.
Unlike what you and your favorite artists might have wished, you didn’t leave this world before growing old, so you must face the consequences of your actions: entrenched racism, climate issues left unaddressed, and crumbling infrastructure. But don’t worry, we’re here to tackle these challenges, even if we have to do it in the face of your criticisms.
Summary:
Recent research indicates that Baby Boomers exhibit higher levels of narcissism and hypersensitivity compared to Millennials. The study, involving 747 participants, highlights how Boomers tend to resist feedback and impose their views on others. This generational divide has led to conflicts over values, societal issues, and perceptions of entitlement. While Boomers prepare for retirement, Millennials face a challenging job market and significant financial burdens.
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