By: Ashley Fell
Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, is the first generation to be entirely born in the 21st century.
As they enter their teenage years, they will become a major force that shapes the future.
Already, this generation is becoming increasingly important to educators, marketers, and big tech, especially as they enter their teenage years.
Shaped By the Great Screenage
Generation Alpha is rapidly growing up with technology, screens and virtual reality at their fingertips. Having only ever known these digital and virtual worlds, it shapes their outlook and engagement with the world around them.
With the continued advancement of social media and other technologies, Generation Alpha will have a different experience of adolescence than previous generations. While past generations engaged in communal activities such as watching videos or going to the movies with friends, Generation Alpha engage with technology on an individual basis.
Globally Connected
Generation Alpha is expected to be more diverse and globalised than any previous generation, and this will be reflected in their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours. They will be more open-minded, inclusive, and socially conscious, and they will demand more transparency, accountability, and sustainability from institutions and corporations.
However, their future won’t be without challenge and risk too. Generation Alpha will likely face challenges around mental health issues, cyberbullying, misinformation, and polarisation. These challenges will be amplified by the unprecedented scale, speed, and complexity of the digital/virtual world, and will require new skills, values, and tools to navigate.
Becoming Active Contributors
Despite the fact that they are technically too young to contribute to platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, we know that Generation Alpha is still being impacted by trends on these platforms. As the oldest members of this generation reach their teenage years, they will have more of a say and independence, making it a critical time for parents and educators to guide them. The transitional period between dependence and independence is a life stage that presents a unique opportunity for adults to support and guide their children through a time when they increasingly have more independence and a voice.
With the rise of big tech and the increasing importance of technology, Generation Alpha will become increasingly relevant to society. As they become teenagers, marketers and big brands will increasingly view them as consumers, making it important for parents, educators, and society to understand and support this generation. While Generation Alpha’s adolescence may be different from previous generations, it presents an opportunity to embrace new technologies and help shape the future of this rapidly changing world.
Generation Alpha becoming teenagers will mark a major turning point in their lives and in the history of the world. They will face many opportunities and challenges that will require them to use their language, communication, and adaptation skills in new and innovative ways. As parents, educators, and citizens, we have a responsibility to support and empower them to become the best version of themselves and to create a better future for all.
From explaining the defining traits of each generation to shining a light on the emerging Generation Alphas, this infographic provides a fascinating overview of the generations.
Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.
About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.
Feature image: Photo by 🇸🇮 Janko Ferlič on Unsplash