The perceptions of the generations : how different generations interpret communication and what are the thoughts on each other

Abstract

This study investigates the perception of two different age groups and how they each interpret communication, technology and social media. Special emphasis has been placed on how they are affected differently through these three notions. The two age groups under investigation are the following: those aged between 18 to 25 years, and those aged between 50 to 75 years. In today’s digital age, one can see that the former mentioned age group is more accustomed to the diverse range of technology which surrounds them, this is because they were born within the midst of technology and social media’s growth. As for the latter mentioned age group, the concept of social media proves to be something somewhat new or a commodity they are not completely accustomed to; one which they might decide to reject or embrace, especially seeing how to them this might not come as natural. Having said that, both age groups seem to be staunch supporters of their thoughts, beliefs and approach towards each other, and this should therefore be further analysed, seeing how both come from different backgrounds and tend to follow different lifestyle habits. It is also vital for one to dig deeper into both of the age group’s perceptions, due to the fact that in reality, one age group in particular knows a way of life where social media and technology were not a pivotal element and therefore this group has a different perception and mentality towards these notions. By investigating further the effects of social media through the perceptions of the age groups, one can also acquire a clear idea of how the world functioned when society was not born and raised within the modern digital age; an age that does not know how to live and is not accustomed to living otherwise. With this being said, a Google form dissertation survey was deemed most appropriate in order get the best data possible from candidates.