Partners in Prevention Conference

Millenials and iGen (those born in 1995 or later) form their identities and relationships with others through practices heavily influenced by and interwoven with social media, resulting in new dating norms and terminology often surprising to Gen X’ers and Boomers alike. For example, instead of “dating” or “hooking up,” today’s young adults tell us they’re “talking,” which encompasses a wide range of platonic, romantic, and/or sexual behaviors. The iGen population shares certain characteristics across race and class, and differs in others, in contrast to prior generations, an understanding of which is crucial for providing culturally competent, persuasive programming. This session will help participants better understand the iGen generation and how they compare and contrast with the much-buzzed about Millenials (and the rest of us), how social media can isolate the respective partners in today’s romantic partnerships, and how embracing new terminology and online dating norms will help us more effectively reach young adults where they are through our prevention efforts. Embracing these new norms will prevention educators motivate young adults across multiple identities to engage in healthier relationship practices.