The Problem with Scapegoating the Next Generation

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

There is a common and disturbing trend today of scapegoating the next generation for the myriad of problems we see in the world. It looks something like this:

"This is the most entitled generation I've ever seen."
"In my day we didn't get trophies for participation. We had to earn rewards."
"Young people today are pampered too much."
"Most teenagers don't know the value of hard work and sacrifice."

No doubt there are aspects of recent generations that are disappointing. But, that can be said of every generation. For decades parents have pointed out the failings of their children. Most children have heard their parents say, "In my day we didn't do . . . " And, children have pointed out the failure of past generations to be relevant to the issues of the modern day. Most parents have heard their children say, "You just don't get it."

Here are four things to consider when scapegoating the next generation.... Read More