Impact of digital environment on inter-generational interaction

Abstract

The impact of digital environment on the communicative interaction of generations X, Y and Z representatives has been studied. Attention has been paid to the interrelationship of the generations demographic classification and the socio-historical conditions of their formation. The characteristic features of intergenerational communication, information perception, behavior, and communication style in digital environment have been considered. The factors influencing communication styles formation within and among generations have been highlighted, and a new phenomenon of digital divide has been analyzed, which manifests itself in varying degrees of technology development and adoption. It has been established that digital divide is gradually narrowing, as the availability and dissemination of technology for all age groups of population increases. The preferences and practices of using digital platforms have been investigated, and statistical data confirming changes in communication structure under the influence of technological progress have been presented. It has been concluded that further research is needed on the impact of digital technologies on each generation and, consequently, on intergenerational interaction, especially in connection with the possible risks to people’s mental health associated with excessive content consumption, including youth. The study is based on the analysis of domestic and foreign experts’ scientific papers and sociological survey results