Embracing Generational Labels: An Analysis of Self-Identification and Sociopolitical Alignment

Abstract

Despite the popularity of generational labels like Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z in mass media, social scientists have debated their usefulness and accuracy in research. Consequently, little is known about the actual rate of self-identification with these generational labels in the US population. This study investigated these labels as social identities and examined the extent of intra-generational variation in identification rates by birth year. Additionally, we explored the associations among political partisanship, demographic factors, and generational self-identification. Using logistic regression analyses of data from a nationally representative survey of 1,478 Americans, we find that a majority of respondents self-identify with their “correct” corresponding generational labels but individuals with birth years in the middle of the generational range exhibit much higher rates of self-identification. However, our analysis reveals little evidence for variation in generational self-identification based on party, race, or other demographic characteristics.

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