People Who Lose Touch with Younger Generations as They Age Usually Show These 7 Behaviors According to Psychology

The Shiro Corporation As people age, many adults experience a communication gap with younger generations – whether it be their children, grandchildren, nieces/nephews, or young people in their social circles.

Technological changes, values, language, and lifestyle often make interactions awkward, even creating emotional distance.

According to psychology, this phenomenon does not occur solely due to age differences, but also because of certain behaviors that, without being noticed, widen the gap between generations.

As reported by Geediting on Wednesday (6/17), there are 7 behaviors commonly shown by people who lose touch with younger generations as they age, according to psychology:

1. Rejecting Change and Being Too Rigid on Old Values

People who believe that the values of the past are the only truth often struggle to accept the views or lifestyles of the younger generation.

They often judge the thinking patterns, life choices, or clothing styles of young people as "wrong" or "depraved."

Psychology refers to this behavior as a form of cognitive rigidity—the stubbornness in thinking that hinders openness to differences.

As a result, young people feel unappreciated and choose to keep their distance, not because they lack respect, but because they do not feel heard.

2. Underestimating Technology and the Digital World

Technology is a big part of young people's lives, from social media to artificial intelligence.

When older adults consistently belittle, mock, or refuse to learn technology, they unknowingly cut off important lines of communication.

According to developmental psychology, openness to technology is not just about capability, but also about showing interest in the world of young people—which ultimately builds emotional connection.

3. Tending Towards Monologue, Not Dialogue

Older people often feel they have a lot to teach, so without realizing it, they turn conversations into monologues rather than dialogues.

They more often lecture or give advice, rather than actively listen to what young people think or feel.

In communication psychology, this is called one-way communication, which actually creates distance because the conversational partner does not feel valued or understood.

4. Quick to Criticize and Slow to Appreciate

Many older people or previous generations are more sensitive to the mistakes of young people than their successes.

They quickly point out "mistakes" in lifestyle, career choices, or attitudes, but rarely give praise or recognition for achievements made in different ways.

Continuous criticism without empathy can make the younger generation feel inadequate in the eyes of their elders, and ultimately distance themselves to maintain their emotional well-being.

5. Ignoring the Language and Cultural References of Young People

Language continues to evolve. Young generations have their own terms, jokes, and references to popular culture.

When older people consider the language "stupid," "not important," or "impolite" without trying to understand its context, they create a wall of communication.

Psychology suggests learning and showing curiosity towards the language and culture that is developing, as it shows respect and openness to the world of young people.

6. Unwilling to Learn from the Younger Generation

There is a mistaken belief that older people can only be teachers, not students.

After all, learning from the younger generation—whether it be about trends, technology, or new perspectives—is a healthy two-way interaction.

Social psychology refers to this behavior of not wanting to learn as age-related superiority bias—the belief that age automatically means knowing more, which often closes off the opportunity to build equal relationships and mutual learning.

7. Too Often Nostalgia and Idealizing the Past

Frequently feeling nostalgic is normal.

However, when someone constantly compares the present with the past and idealizes “things were better in the old days,” it can create a feeling of invalidation towards the life experiences of young people.

In the long term, this behavior can make young people feel that their lives are never good enough in their parents' eyes, and as a result, they may be reluctant to share stories or have deep discussions.

Conclusion: Building a Bridge Between Generations

The loss of contact with the younger generation is not fate, but a consequence of behavior that can be changed.

By demonstrating openness, curiosity, and appreciation for the world of the younger generation, older people can remain emotionally relevant in the lives of their children, grandchildren, and the young people around them.

Psychology emphasizes that healthy intergenerational relationships begin with the intention to listen, not just to teach.

When older people are able to show humility and a sense of curiosity, then communication will grow, closeness will be formed, and love will flow across generations.

***