Table of Contents

Understanding the Five Core Values of Generation X

1. Relationships. Relationships are their greatest fear and their greatest need. They have a deep yearning to know and be known, but they are afraid. They are afraid of letting their real self out for fear of being rejected so they maintain the ideal self, the self that others accept—leading to deadly isolation.

2. Fun. From computer games to bungee jumping, Xers are into fun. One Xer said: "You think money is the basis for our existence when it’s really much simpler: fun is." Most Xers work to live. They are waiting for the weekend. (Note: Most ESPN "Extreme Games" feature Xers.)

3. Experience. Subjective experience validates if something is real and good. They want to enjoy life, make a difference, and do something meaningful besides just punching a clock from 9 to 5.

4. Freedom. They don’t like to be labeled and put in a box. They want to be seen as unique individuals able to make a valuable contribution to society. They are very creative and independent and struggle with limits and rules. They value flexibility and spontaneity.

5. Family. If Xers have children, they don’t want to make the same mistakes their parents did. They will spend time with their kids. Xer parents, especially dads, seem to be incredibly committed to their children.

Adapted from A Guide To Understanding Generation X Sub-Cultures by Ken Baugh.

Information supplied by Wayde Wilson, senior pastor, Faith Assembly of God, Hazleton, Pennsylvania.