Beginning in the 50’s and 60’s, there was a huge difference between traditional family life and how life was portrayed on some TV shows. Three in particular are: The Donna Reed show, Father Knows Best, and Ozzie and Harriet. These shows were inaccurate and unrealistic story of how most families lived.
Considering what was available on one of three TV networks, it was no surprise that boomer women were chose a different attitude about marrying and raising a family. Three big changes happened during the 1970’s.
First, baby boomers married later, waited longer to have children, had fewer kids. Many chose to have no children. Because of the pill, women had more control of reproductive choices.
For those that had kids, like all generations before us we wanted more and better things for them.
Lead by advice from Dr. Spook and others we changed how we would raise children. We looked at the child as a whole being. We wanted more emotional security for them as well. The happiness of children became front and center. We began to understand the psychology of parenting.
Second, more women were working full time outside of the home yet our roles as homemaker and housewife were slower to evolve. We were still responsible for many home tasks.
Eventually with a commitment to our careers, we wanted our spouses to participate more in child rearing.
Baby boomer dads became more involved in their children’s lives. Even though this was a new role for men, this became a gift in some regards. Fathers became closer to the children.
Third, these new family dynamics created inevitable strains on both men and women in their relationships. As women were earning money of their own, they became more empowered. It was possible to get a divorce if we wanted to.
Marriages fell apart under unprecedented challenges. By 1975 the number passed 1,000,000 mark, twice as many divorces as the previous decade. Boomers couldn’t make the marriages work the same way as our parents. But maybe we were happier in some regards.
An obvious consequence of divorce was the impact on the lives of children. Kids needed to learn to deal with the world at an earlier age.
For those born in the 1980’s – there were freedoms – with both parents working kids, could roam freely with a bit of money in their pockets. They were entertained by video games and the Walkman. Television became more realistic. And finally doting grandparents who were happy to indulge them and become the guidance for the grandchildren that their parents didn’t want.
What is the result of this change in lifestyle from the 1970’s for today?
1 in 3 boomers are unmarried and without children. This doesn’t fare well for support and companionship that is so helpful in “old age”.
The need for community and an alternative paradigm for aging is more important than ever.
Exploring new options for aging is the goal of “Bay Area is Booming” – a social and educational community launching this winter in Northern California. Currently there are monthly live events with relevant topics addressing needs in our area.
A website coming soon is available for all. We will start with video stories. If you love talking and have good advice for life, please contact me to see if we are a good fit. I would love to see a short 2-3 minutes selfie.
