Dr. Patty Hunter 
LCSW, CSU, Chico School of Social Work 

Dr. Patty Hunter explores the differences among the current generations and what causes conflicts among them. She notes that for the first time in history there are four (and sometimes five) generations in the workforce, which she identifies as Traditionalists (born prior to 1945), Baby Boomers (1946-1964), Gen-X’ers (1965-1980), Gen Y’ers/Millennials (1981-1995), and Gen Z’ers (after 1995). This results in situations where older and younger workers are competing for jobs and where older employees have younger supervisors.  One study showed that 60% of employers are experiencing intergenerational conflict. In addition to identifying the different generations, Dr. Hunter explains the dynamics and challenges resulting from various generational perspectives and identifies the benefits of a multi-generational workplace. 

Recorded: October 8, 2015