Creating real family networks
According to recent research conducted by Microsoft and AARP, social networking and other online communications help to bridge the generation gap. Of those surveyed, 83 percent said that going online was a “helpful” form of communication among family members. Although more and better communication does not necessarily close the generation gap, a sizable number of respondents in all age groups said going online helps them to better understand other family members or helps other family members better understand them.
Just as technology is connecting the generational divide there’s still a gap in offline communication between generations. For example, nearly half of parents state that teens know to come to them when they see something online that makes them uncomfortable. Yet, less than a third of teens report they would know to do that.
Get more information about our Connecting Generations research and helpful resources to help your family interact safely online.
- Microsoft Connecting Generations Executive Summary (PDF)
- Microsoft Connecting Generations Infographic (PDF)
- AARP Connecting Generations Final Report (webpage)
- Seniors, Stay Safer Online Brochure (PDF)
- Talking Safely Online Brochure (PDF)
