KEY POINTS

  • A study revealed that baby boomers are more sensitive than millennials
  • They are also said to be narcissistic
  • The study involved 750 individuals

For a long time, there has been a consistent debate as to who between babyboomers and millennials are considered as the real “snowflake.” A study revealed the answer to this ongoing question.

The study, published in the Psychology and Aging journal, revealed that babyboomers are said to have a narcissistic characteristic and are more sensitive. The survey involved 750 people aged between 13 and 77.

The result of the study showed that there are more baby boomers who are sensitive and narcissistic as compared to millennials. The study thwarts the ongoing notion that millennials tend to be more hypersensitive.

babyboomers sensitive than millennials
babyboomers more sensitive than millennials free-photos - Pixabay

Professor William Chopik from the MSU and the lead author of the controversial study said, “There’s a narrative in our culture that generations are getting more and more narcissistic, but no one has ever looked at it throughout generations or how it varies with age at the same time.”

Among the things that they found from surveying 750 individuals was that those who were born a bit earlier in the century had higher levels of hypersensitivity. The study also noted that they were also the ones who tend to show narcissistic behavior as compared to millennials. Aside from this, the study also revealed that they show wilfulness, or that tendency of a person to impose his thoughts and opinions on others.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Mayo Clinic defined narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) as a mental condition wherein individuals have their own sense of self-importance, a desire or need for admiration, as well as their want for attention. They aren’t also open to criticism, and it’s certainly hard for them to accept feedback.

While narcissists may do well in environments where they always get the accolades, it will be quite hard for them to be in an environment where criticism is a part of one’s daily endeavors. As per studies, narcissists find it hard to build meaningful relationships.

Treatment for NPD

According to WebMD, there’s no cure for NPD. Treatment could come in the form of therapy. They advise parents to cut back on giving praise to children and as to those who don’t give praise would have to try at least. The key is always to find the right balance when it comes to dealing with narcissists.