Generation X on the Couch

• Published in: PsycCritiques Vol. 50; no. 20; p. No Pagination Specified
• Main Author: Mellinger, Mark V.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: American Psychological Association 18.05.2005
• Subjects: Adolescent Development; Authority; Generational Differences; Human; Psychoanalysis; Psychoanalytic Theory; Social Identity; Sociocultural Factors
• ISSN: 1554-0138; 1554-0138
• DOI: 10.1037/051317

Reviews the book by C. Strenger (see record 2004-21204-000), which is study of individuals fitting the rubric of Generation X, based on the author's work with them as a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst. The review highlights that the book sets out to counter the viewpoints of other psychoanalysts who see this generation in a pathological light. The central contention is that Generation X is grounded in a philosophy of the "designed life"-life as an individual creative work. The author contrasts this with the baby boomer generation's view of life as a responsible duty and argues persuasively that the baby boomer generation's successful attack on authority itself has left Generation X without a belief in authority but paradoxically also a deep yearning for authority. The reviewer suggests this book will be of interest to sociologists, social psychologists, and students of contemporary and popular culture more than to practicing clinicians. Additionally, he suggests that the book is worthwhile reading as both a historical perspective on the very latest cultural and psychological trends and as a thorough psychological exploration of the underlying and resulting patterns of individual's lives. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)