eneration X (Born between 1960 and 1980)
In contrast to the classic household experienced by Baby Boomers, many Generation X children lived in two-career households. Rising divorce rates resulted in 40% of Generation X children being raised in a single parent household (Strauss & Howe, 1991). In spite of this parenting change, the infrastructure for working mothers and single parents remained underdeveloped, resulting in a "latch key" generation. Many Generation Xers grew up as underprotected children in overly permissive homes in which parents frequently were absent (Kupperschmidt, 1998). Consequently, at a young age they learned to manage on their own, becoming adept, clever, and resourceful. Their friends became increasingly important, as well. Without the support of a large and extended family, teenage members of Generation X developed a reliance on a cadre of long-standing, close friends.