Psychologist explains Gen Alpha is not disrespectful but just misunderstood — her reasons hit the nail on the head

Gen Z has been the talk of the town for quite some time, as they are known for their unique and modern ideas and lifestyles. However, more recently, all generations are turning their heads towards Gen Alpha, the newest of the lot. Data from Springtide Research Institute revealed that Gen Alpha accounts for present-day teenagers. Those born between 2010 and 2024 reportedly come under the Gen Alpha category. There have been many rumors about differences, especially in communication and behavior, in this generation. Commonly misunderstood as disrespectful, the Gen Alphas are not actually as mean and inconsiderate as many believe, per Parents.com. 

There are perceptions that today’s teenagers are more difficult to deal with or seem harsher and challenging than previous generations. However, Dr. Catherine Nobile, a psychologist and an expert in treating teenagers and young adults and the founder of Nobile Psychology, revealed that there is more to this claim than what meets the eye. She explained that there are several reasons why there is an obvious change in Gen Alpha’s mindset and behavior. “In contrast with preceding generations, Gen Alpha has grown up in a time when global issues are highly visible, multiple viewpoints are frequently aired and digital tools allow them to express opinions from an early age,” the expert noted.

She further mentioned that this change is just a response to the dynamic society they have been welcomed into. “All these factors could make them appear more difficult or challenging to authority than their parents would want them to be,” she noted. While younger people question conventional ideas, it seems to be a negative message to other generations. Compared to previous age groups and their lifestyles and mindsets, Gen Alpha has been experiencing a different scenario altogether. Dr. Nobile suggested that their seemingly upsetting behavior is what they are learning from the trends put before them.

“They are growing up [in] a world that embraces self-expression, celebrates emotional intelligence and questions convention. Unlike previous generations, Gen Alpha will be more likely to confront authority than to accept it,” she said. Also, she pointed out an instance where older generations were more inclined to accept and respect. However, Gen Alpha has been raised in a society that praises confidence and expression. Hence, they are likely to question things and be vocal in their opinions. The latter might come across as disrespect or rebellion, but in reality, it is just an attempt to understand and connect better with the world. “This outspokenness can be mistaken for a lack of respect for traditional values or authority,” Dr. Nobile cautioned. 

While this bold and assertive stance may seem unusual and uncomfortable, older generations are called to take a more open-minded and neutral approach. Parents and elders can always try to see eye-to-eye with Gen Alpha and work on the communication bit to bring more clarity. “The secret is to help Gen Alpha develop the balance between assertiveness and being assertive, between being strong and being tough, between confidence and being a bully and between self-esteem and arrogance,” the expert explained. While summarizing it, she highlighted, “By shaping both self-assurance and empathy, we stand to raise Gen Alpha into adults who know how to assert their own needs and goals and recognize the value of respect and cooperation in achieving shared goals.”