Generational differences tend to become obvious in how people communicate, handle conflict, or express empathy.
To younger generations, some boomer behaviours can come across as self-absorbed, even if that’s not the intent at all. Of course, this isn’t meant to demonise any one age group or say that one way is right and another wrong. However, these gaps in social expectations and norms tends to lead to a lot of friction.
1. Always turning the conversation back to their own experiences
When a younger person shares something meaningful or challenging, and the Boomer in the room immediately responds with a story about themselves, it can feel like the original point got steamrolled. It might come from a place of trying to relate, but it often reads as dismissive instead.
This habit can make it feel like younger people’s stories are just springboards for another trip down memory lane. While Boomers may be trying to connect, it sometimes lands more like a monologue than a conversation.
2. Dismissing mental health struggles as weakness or drama
Younger generations tend to speak more openly about mental health, seeing it as an important part of wellbeing. When boomers brush it off as attention-seeking or suggest people should just “toughen up,” it comes across as lacking empathy. That attitude can make them seem out of touch or unwilling to understand what other people are going through. It’s not just about opinions; it’s about how people feel heard and supported, or not.
3. Dominating family gatherings without leaving space for other people
Whether it’s taking over the conversation at dinner or deciding what everyone watches on TV, boomers sometimes take the lead without checking if other people are happy with it. To them, it might feel like hosting, but to younger people, it can feel like they’re being sidelined. It’s especially frustrating for younger adults who are trying to have more of a voice in family dynamics. It’s less about control and more about wanting space to contribute or do things differently, too.
4. Refusing to learn new things because “they’ve always done it this way”
There’s often resistance to new technology, changing language, or updated ways of working. Saying they’re too old to learn or that it’s unnecessary can come off as self-centred, especially when it affects people who have to adjust for them. While it may stem from discomfort or habit, the refusal to adapt often places the burden on everyone else. It sends the message that their way matters most, even if that’s not what they mean to express.
5. Expecting praise for basic decency
Some boomers express shock when they’re not applauded for doing things younger people see as standard, like not being sexist or helping around the house. They might want recognition for being “better than other people their age,” but it can feel performative. That self-congratulatory behaviour can rub younger people the wrong way. It suggests a need to be seen as exceptional rather than simply doing what’s fair or respectful.
6. Interrupting to correct or “educate” mid-conversation
Younger people often find it irritating when boomers cut them off to share a fact, story, or correction, especially when it’s unsolicited. It can come across as condescending or as if they think they always know better. Even if it’s meant as helpful, the timing and tone often matter more than the content. These interruptions can derail meaningful discussions and leave the younger person feeling unheard or belittled.
7. Assuming they’re owed respect without giving it in return
Many boomers were raised with the idea that age automatically commands respect. However, younger generations tend to believe respect is mutual and earned through actions, not age alone. When older adults demand deference but ignore or dismiss younger people’s views, it feels one-sided. That imbalance can come across as self-important rather than earned authority.
8. Complaining about younger generations constantly
Rants about Gen Z or millennials being lazy, sensitive, or entitled are common, but they rarely lead to understanding. Instead, they paint boomers as unwilling to engage with changing norms or recognise their own generation’s flaws. It gives the impression that boomers think their way was the best—and any deviation is a decline. That perspective shuts down conversation and reinforces the idea that they only care about how things used to be.
9. Making every disagreement about being “disrespected”
When someone challenges their viewpoint, some Boomers immediately take it as a personal attack. Rather than discussing the issue, they focus on how they were “spoken to” or how things “used to be done.” It pulls the focus away from the actual topic and puts the spotlight back on them. For younger people trying to have open discussions, it can feel like an emotional shutdown rather than engagement.
10. Expecting younger relatives to cater to their preferences
From holiday plans to restaurant choices, some boomers insist on doing things their way—then act hurt or confused if anyone objects. It can seem like they expect family life to revolve around them without considering what other people want. Younger generations value shared decision-making and flexibility. When boomers don’t participate in that, it can come off as selfish, even if it’s framed as tradition or “what we’ve always done.”
11. Talking over people and not noticing
Whether it’s during a group chat or a casual meal, boomers can sometimes dominate conversation and not realise they’re interrupting or taking up all the space. It might be a habit or a confidence thing, but it often comes off as self-absorbed. When younger people feel like they can’t get a word in or are repeatedly overlooked, it makes the whole interaction feel one-sided. A little awareness and intentional listening would go a long way.
12. Framing younger people’s challenges as personal inconveniences
If a younger person brings up issues like housing costs, burnout, or discrimination, and a boomer responds with annoyance or disbelief, it signals a lack of empathy. Acting like these problems are made up or exaggerated adds to the generational divide. It can seem like boomers only care if something affects them directly. When empathy is replaced with defensiveness or judgement, it reinforces the idea that they’re unwilling to see beyond their own perspective.
