Comparing two generations of women in a small town in Malta, Attard : a sociological inquiry

Abstract

Growing-up in a numerous family where arguments never seem to seize, I gained interest into studying generations. I was always curious why my parents and siblings always seemed to be in conflict with each other. When the theme of this dissertation started to develop, my interest was to find out how generations and the conflicts between them contribute to society's survival. It seems that society cannot do without intergenerational conflict in values. This dissertation was built upon this assumption. Such conflicts between generations inspired me to engage in this exercise to find out how they function and how they contribute to the change in society's norms and values. Throughout the dissertation special emphasis was given to the process of intergenerational value change. The aim of this dissertation is to examine the process of shifting traditional/materialist value priorities to post-traditional/post-materialist value orientations taking place between the young and older female generations that live in H' Attard. The shifting importance given to certain sets of values and needs over others between both generations is a result of the process of social change that is taking place in Malta. This means that values linked to education, morality, sexuality, family life, work and religion are being affected. The process of inter-generational value change cannot be easily analysed and calculated since it takes place very slowly. Sometimes people experiencing such changes are not aware of them because it is a gradual process. Generally, it is always after some time that people begin to perceive such changes and become · aware of what has happened around them. Thus although intergenerational value change is visible to a certain extent, precise measures cannot be taken. As a result this theme cannot be easily calculated and analysed. Such an exercise requires one to step into the social fibres of society in order to perceive the changes taking place. However the process of shifting value priorities is best captured in the diverse and sometimes conflicting attitudes and values that exist between the young and the older members in society. Innovation resulting from such conflicting worldviews is an important element that sets out the road for continuity.