What is the generation born from 1980-2000 like?

Dr. Thom Rainer, the president and CEO of Lifeway Christian resources, has been studying the generation (called the “Millennials”) born from 1980-2000.  He and his son have a forthcoming book.  In the mean time, he has shared several broad generalizations.

What are the Millennials like?

First, they are a hopeful generation. In our study, about 96% of Millennials indicated that they can do something great. A generation of optimists, for sure! One conclusion might be that Millennials are naïve and disconnected. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Millennials, largely, are realists who know that all is not well in the world. But, they believe they can have a role in changing it and making a difference with their lives.

Second, they are a relational generation. Perhaps this is why social networks like Twitter and Facebook are thriving in our culture. Millennials want to communicate and connect with others, there is no doubt about it. Relationships at work and with friends are valued highly, but so also are family relationships. I was encouraged to find that 9 out of 10 Millennials said their parents had a positive influence on them.

Third, they are a generation of learners. I’ve already mentioned that they value education, but more should be said. There are reasons why Millennials are receiving undergraduate degrees at a rate that surpasses all previous generations. Many in our study indicated two main reasons why they frenetically pursue education: parents and pragmatics. Millennials listen to their parents’ advice, especially regarding education. But Millennials also desire to get ahead, and one factor that separates them from each other in the work force is education.

Fourth, they are a less religious generation. I have to admit that this aspect grieves me, but motivates me as well (imagine the missiological implications!). Only 13 percent of the Millennials considered in our study said that spirituality of any type was important to them. One out of ten. Most Millennials don’t even think about religious matters at all. This generation is not antagonistic toward religion, especially Christianity, but rather agnostic toward all aspects of religion.

Read the whole thing here.