Gen X      

          What defines a generation?  Its music such as the rock and roll of the 1950’s?  Or a global event like World War II? 

          The 49.3 million Americans born between 1965 and 1975 have become known as Generation X.  That unusual title can be attributed to Canadian author, Douglas Coupland.   In 1991 Coupland wrote a book on the characteristics of American generations throughout history and used the term Generation X.   The title of “Generation X” was quickly picked up by marketers aiming their products as that particular age group.  Another popular term for Americans between the ages of 29 and 39 is “Thirteeners” or the “13^th Generation” as in the 13^th generation of citizens since 1620 who have lived in what became the United States.

          Other terms for Generation X are not as complimentary, such as “slackers” or “non-involved”.   But just as all Baby Boomers were not hippies as teen-agers, all Generation Xers are not unmotivated.  Most are creative, strongly independent, self-reliant and have a surprisingly good work ethic, including a strong sense of company loyalty as long as it is rewarded.  Generation X may not be as concerned with the trappings of success as earlier generations – homes, cars, etc - but they are very concerned with financial and emotional security.  They are hopeful that the future will be good to them but they are also shockingly realistic and honest about the future.  Here are some more Generation X facts:

• 62%  of Gen Xers are married

• 29.7 million are parents

• 51% of children under 18 living at home are in households headed by a member of Generation X

• 31% of Gen Xers have earned a college degree

• 81% are employed fulltime or part-time

• 37% of Gen Xers mothers worked outside of the home when their kids were growing up.

• 16.7% of Gen Xers are Hispanic, now the largest US minority group.