Madison, a millennial born in 1995, sparked an online conversation about generational identity by proposing a theory that birth order significantly influences which generation cusp-dwellers identify with. Her TikTok video, garnering over 128,700 views, posits that being the eldest sibling among Gen Z siblings fostered a stronger cultural connection with Gen Z, leading her to identify as a “zillennial.” She contrasts her experience with individuals of a similar age who, being the youngest among millennial siblings, relate more strongly to millennial culture. Madison emphasizes that her observation isn’t a judgment of either generation but rather a recognition of distinct cultural differences arising from varied familial experiences.
This theory resonated with numerous viewers, igniting discussions about the nuances of generational categorization. While traditional definitions, like those used by Pew Research Center, demarcate generations based on birth years (1981-1996 for millennials, 1997-2012 for Gen Z), Madison’s perspective introduces the complexity of familial influences. Her video highlights how individual experiences within a family, particularly exposure to younger or older siblings’ cultural touchstones, can override the broader societal influences typically associated with a specific birth year cohort. This suggests a more fluid and personalized understanding of generational identity.
The concept of generational labels serves as a tool for researchers to analyze societal shifts influenced by historical events like economic recessions, wars, and pandemics. Millennials, for example, came of age during the rise of the internet and faced the challenges of the 2008 economic recession, significantly impacting their career paths and life choices. Gen Z, on the other hand, grew up in a world saturated with technology, experiencing social media and constant online connectivity as a fundamental aspect of their lives. These contrasting experiences have shaped different behavioral patterns and attitudes between the two generations.
However, as Pew Research Center acknowledges, the boundaries of generational cohorts are not absolute. Significant differences can exist within a single generation, just as similarities can bridge the gap between adjacent generations. Madison’s theory adds another layer to this understanding, demonstrating how family dynamics can further shape individual experiences within these broader generational frameworks. Her observation underscores that while birth year provides a basic framework, it’s only one piece of the puzzle in understanding how individuals perceive their generational affiliation.
The viral nature of Madison’s video prompted a flood of responses on TikTok, with users sharing their own experiences and perspectives. Some comments echoed her sentiment, noting how older siblings with younger Gen Z siblings felt a stronger kinship with that generation. Others highlighted the influence of social media platforms, contrasting “Facebook millennials” with “TikTok millennials” as a reflection of differing cultural preferences within the same generation. The comments section became a microcosm of the broader conversation around generational identity, demonstrating the multitude of factors contributing to individual perceptions of belonging.
Madison’s theory, while presented simply, touches upon a complex intersection of individual experience, familial influences, and broader societal changes. It serves as a reminder that generational labels, while useful for analysis, cannot fully capture the diverse experiences within and across generations. The viral response to her video underscores the ongoing conversation surrounding generational identity and the fluid nature of belonging in a constantly evolving social landscape. It prompts further consideration of how individual experiences, beyond just birth year, shape our understanding of generational divides and the ways we connect with others.
