Young Adults’ Perceptions of Intergenerational Communication: Mongolian and American Data

Abstract

This study examines Mongolian and American young adults’ perceptions of intergenerational communication, specifically with respect to age stereotypes, norms of respect, communication behavior, and communication satisfaction. Using the Communication Predicament of Aging Model as a theoretical framework, the relationships between these variables are investigated using regression analyses. Young adults from both cultural contexts were asked to evaluate prior interactions with both middle-aged and older adults. The findings indicate a difference between how each generation is perceived, and the unique role of the middle-aged generation in Mongolia is evident.

Keywords

• Age stereotypes
• Age norms
• Vitality
• Benevolence
• Politeness
• Deference
• Respect
• Avoidance
• Communication satisfaction
• Communication enjoyment
• Middle-Age
• Older adult
• Mongolia