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Generational differences: revisiting generational work values for the new millennium
Author(s) -
Wey Smola Karen,
Sutton Charlotte D.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
journal of organizational behavior
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.938
H-Index - 177
eISSN - 1099-1379
pISSN - 0894-3796
DOI - 10.1002/job.147
Subject(s) - work (physics) , cohort , psychology , face (sociological concept) , world values survey , demographic economics , social psychology , sociology , social science , economics , statistics , mechanical engineering , engineering , mathematics
As we enter the new millennium and face the entrance of another generation of workers into the changing world of work, managers are encouraged to deal with the generational differences that appear to exist among workers. This paper revisits the issue of generational differences and the causes of those differences. Data were obtained from more than 350 individuals across the country who responded to a request to complete a survey. Current generational differences in worker values are analysed and the results are compared to a similar study conducted in 1974. Results suggest that generational work values do differ. To a lesser degree, the results suggest that work values also change as workers grow older. Finally, the results indicate an increasing desire among American workers to balance work and personal goals. This change in attitude was reflected even within the same cohort group. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.