Generational differences in work representations

Abstract

Background. The understanding of work has undergone substantial changes over recent decades. These changes are particularly pronounced among younger generations. International studies demonstrate that Generation Y (Millennials) and Generation Z differ significantly in their expectations, values, and meaning-making related to work, contributing to a growing gap in mutual understanding between employees and employers or older managers. Therefore, understanding generational differences in perceptions of work has both theoretical and practical significance.

Methods. An online survey was conducted using psychodiagnostic instruments to assess the emotional, value, and meaning dimensions of work representations, as well as work motivation.

Results. Generational differences were identified in the value, meaning, and emotional dimensions of work representations. Representatives of Generation Z attached greater importance to income and work–life balance, associated work more frequently with money, and were less likely to attribute altruistic meaning to it. In contrast, representatives of Generations X and Y more often viewed work as a way to help others, express values of service, and contribute to society. This orientation was most pronounced among Generation X: in free associations, its members more frequently described work in terms of usefulness, calling, and personal engagement, attributed to it the meaning of "Value/Spirit of Service," and were less likely to associate work with financial reward. Representatives of Generation Y demonstrated the most emotionally charged perception of work: they more frequently associated work with stress, routine, and boredom, and more often reported feelings of sorrow, contempt, and surprise in relation to work.

Conclusions. Work representations differ across generations primarily in their value, meaning, and emotional dimensions. Generation Z is characterized by a stronger orientation toward financial rewards and work–life balance, whereas Generation X is more likely to attribute prosocial meaning to work, associating it with usefulness, calling, and service. Representatives of Generation Y demonstrate the most emotionally charged perception of work.