There’s a clear disconnect between the way Baby Boomers and younger generations see the world.

This gap often leads to misunderstandings and, at times, outright conflicts. One accusation that repeatedly gets thrown at Boomers is that they can be self-centered.

As someone who’s fascinated with psychology, I’ve decided to delve into this claim.

Are there certain behaviors common among Boomers that can be seen as self-centered in today’s world?

Well, after some research, I’ve found seven behaviors that just might validate this claim. But remember, this is all about understanding each other better, not about pointing fingers.

So sit tight as we explore these seven Boomer behaviors which, according to psychology, are viewed as self-centered by today’s standards.

1) Resistance to change

Let’s face it, change can be hard for anyone. But according to psychology, Baby Boomers can find it particularly challenging.

Understanding the psychology behind this is key to bridging the generational divide.

Renowned psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change.” This quote encapsulates the importance of being adaptable and open to new ways of doing things.

This resistance to change, often seen in Boomers, can manifest in various ways.

It can be as simple as a reluctance to adopt new technology or as complex as holding onto outdated societal norms.

While it’s completely natural to stick with what’s familiar and comfortable, it can come across as self-centered when it dismisses the experiences and perspectives of others, especially younger generations.

Remember, understanding this behavior isn’t about passing judgment but rather fostering empathy and promoting dialogue between generations.

2) Communication style

Another behavior that often gets labeled as self-centered is the communication style of Baby Boomers.

Now, let me give you an example from my own life.

I remember a conversation with my Boomer uncle, where he seemed to dominate the discussion, leaving little room for others to share their thoughts.

Despite his good intentions, it came across as if only his opinions mattered.

This behavior might be unintentional, but it can create the impression of self-centeredness. It’s essential to remember that effective communication is a two-way street.

As Carl Jung, the famous psychologist, once said, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.” This means actions often speak louder than words and can be a powerful tool in how we interact with others.

Acknowledging this behavior and striving for more inclusive communication can help bridge the gap between generations and promote better understanding.

3) Attitude towards work-life balance

Can we talk about work-life balance?

In today’s world, the importance of work-life balance is well-recognized. We understand that to be healthy and happy, we need a balance between our professional and personal lives. But this wasn’t always the case.

Many Baby Boomers grew up in an era where work was the primary focus.

Climbing the corporate ladder and achieving professional success was often prioritized over personal fulfillment or family time.

This can lead to a perception that Boomers are work-centric or self-centered, neglecting the importance of balance.

Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, once said, “Love and work… work and love, that’s all there is.” This quote perfectly captures the necessity of having a balance between personal life (love) and professional life (work).

Today’s world values this balance more than ever before. Recognizing this shift in perspective is essential in understanding each other across generational lines.

4) Financial outlook

Here’s an interesting behavior that often crops up: financial outlook.

Boomers, having grown up in a time of post-war prosperity, often have a different perspective towards finances and savings.

Many Boomers believe in the “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality, which can sometimes come off as self-centered to younger generations grappling with economic challenges such as student debt and housing affordability.

A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who grew up in times of economic prosperity tend to be more optimistic and self-reliant.

This can create a disconnect between Boomers and younger generations who didn’t experience the same economic climate.

Understanding these differences in financial outlook can help bridge the generational divide and foster better understanding.

5) View on environment and sustainability

This one hits close to home for me.

One area where Boomers and younger generations often clash is the view on environment and sustainability.

Many Boomers grew up in a time where environmental consciousness wasn’t as prevalent as it is today.

This can lead to behaviors perceived as self-centered, like excessive consumption or disregard for sustainable practices.

As a psychologist and environmental enthusiast, I’m reminded of a quote from Abraham Maslow, who said, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.”

Today, being in the present moment also means being aware of our environment and our impact on it.

Acknowledging this shift in perspective towards more sustainable practices is a big step towards bridging the gap between Boomers and younger generations.

6) Perception of independence

This might surprise you, but the Boomer’s perception of independence is often seen as self-centered by younger generations.

Boomers are often proud of their independence and self-reliance. They value the ability to stand on their own two feet and solve problems without help.

While this is admirable, it can sometimes come across as dismissive of community support or collective problem-solving, which are highly valued by younger generations.

Psychologist Alfred Adler once said, “It is easier to fight for one’s principles than to live up to them.” This reminds us that while independence is a worthy principle, it’s also important to accept help and work together when necessary.

Understanding this difference in perception can help foster more effective communication and cooperation between generations.

7) Attitude towards tradition

Lastly, let’s talk about tradition.

Boomers are known for their respect for traditions and established norms.

But what may seem as a mark of respect can sometimes be perceived as rigid or self-centered by those advocating for change and progress.

As psychologist B.F. Skinner said, “A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances.” This suggests that holding onto traditions is not necessarily wrong, but flexibility can lead to growth and understanding.

Respecting traditions while being open to change is an art that fosters understanding and harmony among generations.

Final reflections

Navigating the generational divide is like walking a tightrope. It’s all about balancing respect for the experiences and perspectives of Baby Boomers with the evolving values of today’s world.

As we’ve explored these seven behaviors, it’s crucial to remember that understanding is a two-way street.

It’s not about pointing fingers or placing blame, but fostering empathy and dialogue.

The behaviors we’ve discussed are not inherently wrong or right. They’re simply different perspectives shaped by different times and experiences.

And when we seek to understand these differences, we pave the way for greater connection and understanding between generations.

So let’s use this knowledge not as a tool for judgement, but as a bridge to empathy and mutual respect.

After all, we’re all products of our time, navigating this complex world as best as we can.