ERIC Number: ED527648
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2010
Pages: 119
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: ISBN-978-1-1095-9071-5
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Homogeneity in Heterogeneous Environments? An Analysis of Generation Theory Applied to College Generations
Eddleman, Donna M.
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, The College of William and Mary
The prescriptive characteristics that have been assigned to the entire Millennial generation, suggest that the student population inhabiting college campuses today is neither demographically or experientially diverse. Current generation theory ignores specific environmental and regional influences, like those acknowledged in Bronfenbrenner's ecological paradigm and Mannheim's generation theory, and places a greater emphasis on the impact social movements and historical events have on generational development. To evaluate the accuracy of this Millennial characterization and to learn if immediate environment and region of the country influence trait development, 21 traditional aged college students from three different geographic regions of the country were interviewed. The results demonstrate that immediate environment does impact character development and that while historical and social events may create a generational consciousness, clusters of personality traits are discernible and create unique regional personas. These regional traits and the ecological paradigm in which students are raised should inform and direct Student Services on college campuses. If specialized needs based on environment and demographics can be identified, student affairs practitioners can provide more targeted and relevant services and programs thereby increasing the likelihood for student satisfaction and academic success. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Generational Differences, College Students, Personality Traits, Regional Characteristics, Differences, Personality Development, Environmental Influences
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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