36 People Share Funny Differences Between Parents And Themselves At The Same Age, Internet Loves It
Interview With ExpertThere is no surprise that a lot has changed since our parents used to be our age. Not only do we have more innovations, resources or even attention to mental health, but also there is a huge difference in our views on relationships. Probably there are many of us whose parents at our age were already married with kids and we can’t even call the doctor…
Well, about that, on TikTok there is a trend going on that more and more online users are hopping on. Folks online share their parents’ photos when they were at the same age and in comparison add their own photos revealing quite a different state of life that they are in. So scroll through, upvote the ones to which you can relate the most and share your thoughts below!
This post may include affiliate links.
I think the real question is, What can you get at Chipotle that's $4???
Load More Replies...All this shows is that this day and age, people are getting smarter to not get pregnant so young. Also, there is nothing wrong with wanting to do things with ur life other than getting married or having kids.
Not so much smarter as much better birth control access to and education.
Load More Replies...“Each generation uniquely shapes the cultural, social, and economic landscape, reflecting the values, priorities, and challenges of their time,” shared Alexis Abramson, PhD, who is a lifestyle gerontologist, with Bored Panda.
She also shared a few societal changes that have occurred between generations, starting with environmental awareness. “Younger generations have been more vocal about climate change and environmental conservation, influencing policies and behaviors. Also, family structures - they have become more diverse, with variations in household compositions, including single-parent households, blended families, and chosen families.
“There’s also been a trend towards delaying marriage and childbirth, as well as an increase in cohabitation and non-traditional relationship arrangements.” Moreover, political ideologies and affiliations have shifted over time, influenced by global events, social movements, and generational values.
I'm 36, and I would love if someone gave me an Easter basket of fun stuff :)
I'm even older, and I second that. And bring back cash in a card on my birthday!
Load More Replies...Looks like he is about to find out his girlfriend is pregnant, he is going to need a shot.
I'm nearly 50, my mum got me an Easter basket of bath stuff and my husband got chocolate. I got them fancy Easter eggs, which they fought over worse than my sister and I did as little kids, and they are nearly 80.
I'm 39 and mom still gives all of us "kids" (ages 29-52) Easter baskets.
Well you're pointing him in the wrong direction! Sunset is the other way. Poor dog. 🤭
My mom had four of us in five years too. She never looked that happy about it.
Dad traded hair for kids. No down time between them. Term breeder seems appropriate
Obviously, each generation has witnessed remarkable advancements in technology. “For example, older generations may have experienced the introduction of television, while younger generations grew up with smartphones and the internet. This has dramatically altered communication, entertainment, and work patterns.
The following changes are in gender roles and expectations over the years. “Women’s participation in the workforce has increased, and progress has been made towards gender equality in various spheres of life. Attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights have also evolved, with growing acceptance and legal recognition.”
Alexis noted that there’s been a growing emphasis on health and wellness, with increased awareness of mental health issues, the importance of physical fitness, and the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on overall well-being.
I wish I'd done the same. My dad was in the Air Force and fought in the Vietnam War. I wanted to follow his path and join the military. I am so jealous and proud of OP - Air Force medic!!
Load More Replies...Don't know which is harder or more adulty but ur achieving a*s making the rest of us look bad
Load More Replies...You should feel proud and accomplished. You're uniformed and serving. Thank you for YOUR dedication. Good parents 👍
Someone tell her she isnt going to pull the Easter bunny out of there.
Um...I don't think anyone hid the Easter eggs in there. Easter keister
Now, speaking about the advancements in technology and communication - Alexis emphasized that they have transformed the way relationships are formed, nurtured, and maintained across generations, significantly impacting societal norms and family dynamics.
She pointed out that technology has revolutionized communication, offering instant connectivity regardless of geographical distance. “This has led to more frequent and diverse communication between family members, including video calls, instant messaging, and social media interactions. Consequently, younger generations who have grown up with these tools may place greater emphasis on constant communication and staying connected with their families compared to older generations.”
Comparing relationship dynamics, she noted that social media platforms and dating apps have altered the dynamics of romantic relationships, providing opportunities for meeting new people, and maintaining connections. “Younger generations often use these platforms to explore relationships and express themselves more openly. In contrast, older generations may have different views on online dating and prefer more traditional methods of meeting partners.”
Omg is that Raising Cane's?? I'll take a box combo, no slaw, extra toast please...
Order the slaw, I'll trade you a tender for it
Load More Replies...Well. It's definitely an achievement, but perhaps not one to aspire to.
Load More Replies...This is, excuse me, pathetic. None of my kid's friends, aged 21-26 needs their parents to cut their food for them. All live away from home, and the ones who have graduated college are all working and supporting themselves, cooking and cleaning for themselves, and hosting dinner parties. BTW, some live with 4-6 roommates so they can afford it, and dinner parties are not expensive, especially if it's a potluck.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks that. There is no excuse for any healthy teenager, much less adult, to need help eating.
Load More Replies...If you have the hand-eye-mouth coordination of a drunk kitten (like me), it's far easier cutting up spaghetti than it is getting food stains out of your clothing.
This may seem trivial but by God some things just taste better when done by a momagician.
At 29, your parents could afford three kids, to have a house built, and own a camcorder. Times have definitely changed.
Exactly. We can’t really compare ourselves to our parents in that way. I see myself as successful by my own standards now.
Load More Replies...Technology has also both strengthened and strained family bonds. “On the one hand, it enables families to share experiences, photos, and updates in real time, fostering a sense of closeness even when physically apart. On the other hand, excessive screen time and digital distractions can lead to reduced face-to-face interactions within families, potentially affecting the quality of relationships, especially between parents and children.”
Also, generational differences exist in attitudes towards privacy and sharing personal information online. “Younger generations tend to be more comfortable sharing details about their relationships and family life on social media. In comparison, older generations may value privacy and discretion more, preferring to keep certain aspects of their personal lives offline.”
It's called preventing food waste! You're helping the environment, good job.
I felt so accomplished the other day. I made an appointment for my dentist, my doctor, AND an appointment to get my cat neutered all in one day. I literally didn't sleep well the night before from anxiety knowing I was going to do that, but I did it! Lol
Just make sure all three are clear about which of you is the patient... especially important on the third one.
Load More Replies...I was the same & overcame it & helped my grandson overcome it. Write down what you want to say to look at while you're on the phone.
Thank you!! I have SO much anxiety over talking to people on the phone. I am fine speaking to people in person, but I panic that I am going to say something stupid when I'm on a phonecall to the doctor, dentist, vet, etc. I will try this out the next time and write out what I need to say! Thank you!
Load More Replies...Both my mom and I were married at age 19. She is about to turn 60 married 40yrs. I am about to turn 40 married 20 yrs. She had me a year after marrying. My husband and i waited 12 yrs after marrying to start having human children. Always had fur babies!
Load More Replies...I don't know when you are supposed to stop feeling like that, but I haven't reached that point yet.
Finally, Alexis emphasized that there are overarching trends in the way different generations approach parenting and raising children or wanting kids in general, but individual parenting styles and approaches can vary significantly within each generation based on factors such as cultural background, socioeconomic status, and personal values.
Starting from parenting styles - each generation exhibits distinct parenting styles influenced by their upbringing, cultural values, and societal norms. “For example, baby boomers may lean towards authoritative parenting, emphasizing discipline and respect, while millennials and Generation Z parents often prioritize a more collaborative and empathetic approach, focusing on open communication and emotional well-being.”
Also, looking at work-life balance - Alexis pointed out that it has become a significant consideration for many younger parents, particularly millennials and Generation Z. “They often strive to balance career aspirations with family responsibilities and are more likely to seek flexible work arrangements and parental leave policies to accommodate their parenting duties.”
Pfft, this will NEVER be me... Cause if my mom drops me off somewhere she has to stay with me and hold my hand. 😂
Right!? But "mom, I'm ready to get picked up" at 23 ??
Load More Replies...This is my daughter at 37. To be fair, she is dyslexic, ADHD and on the Autistic spectrum. She cannot drive and stay in a lane. The driving instructor gave up on her.
Probably not explosion, but lots of sparks what could catch your microwave on fire
Load More Replies...Why is everyone so good looking !?! LOL I don't remember people in their 20s looking like this then but maybe I just blocked it out. 😊
“With the proliferation of technology, younger generations of parents are navigating the challenges of raising children in the digital age,” she emphasized. “They may implement stricter screen time limits, monitor online activities more closely, and educate their children about digital literacy and online safety from a younger age.”
And delayed parenthood. “There’s a trend towards delaying parenthood among younger generations, driven by various factors such as pursuing higher education, establishing careers, and financial considerations. Many millennials and Generation Z individuals are opting to delay starting families until the later stages of their lives, contributing to lower birth rates in some regions.”
Money dance. A tradition in many cultures at wedding receptions.
Load More Replies...Are you threatening me? Do not make my bunghole angry!
Load More Replies...She still put her shirt over the head and acted weird, just not on the wedding day.
Dollar dances were common in SW Michigan when I got married, but you didn't have to pin money to the bride. You dropped it in a specially decorated box. The owner of the reception hall we used, "The Country Palace," (I know, I know, but the caterer we wanted only worked with them. They were pissed we were having g a jazz/swing band rather than one of their rotational country bands.) Anyway, they were appalled we weren't having a Dollar Dance. Said everyone would be expecting it. I told them my husband's side would have never heard of it (North Shore Chicago, Social Register types) and my side were New England puritanical and would get the wrong idea.
Fresh fruit and veggies are SO expensive, at least where I live. It's sad.
Yeah and they all seem to go bad within 3 days now. I swear produce lasted longer! I know my mom kept potatoes on the floor of the pantry for months at a time. I can't make mine last a week without sprouting. 😩
Load More Replies...It's so sad that your comment has been left in the dark to age. No one appreciates a fine wine anymore.
Load More Replies...Couldn't afford the grapes?! S**T, you can't afford a house nowadays!!
I think that's the point, can't afford nothing. Not even a grape
Load More Replies...I do feel sad that so many people may never afford a house. I know nothing about economics--I don't understand what has happened.
Rich ppl bought up all the foreclosed houses during the recession and they're now overpriced rentals
Load More Replies...So guys, don't forget to check out Alexis’ Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn and website!
And what do you think about this trend? Do you have some fun comparisons? Share your thoughts below!
i lol'd at this. Read it in my sisters humerous voice for some reason.
Hey, at least you're trying! Good luck with therapy too, hope you find a good fit on the first try.
Is this a trophy photo? Like posing with the bifurcated remains of an Easter Bunny they hunted down?
Sad when half his carcass is less scary than when he still has a head. 😂
Load More Replies...Honestly, two Victory Royales in a row takes incredible Fortnight skills!!! I would be very proud of such an achievement.
We were so intent on giving our kids everything, occasionally we forgot about the fact we were raising adults. I tried my very best to teach mine the life skills and they (29m,30m,35f) are excellent people.
Two of my three have moved out. But everything is ridiculously expensive compared to when I was their age
I do this with my kid, but I like to remind her, before I send the money, of that moment she did not share that last piece of cake with me or any food.
Who's house is that in the background? If it's hers at 26... I just can't even fathom it.
To be fair, your mom didn't have email so she didn't need to overcome the anxiety, that obviously explains all the differences.
The first e-mail was sent in 1971, so maybe she did have to overcome that same anxiety. It could be hereditary.
Hey, you knew enough to dress in dark colors and bring a container for your stash, so at least you're good at what you're doing.
You must be the kid on the left still trying to blend in and not be seen.
These do not taste the same anymore! 😡 I assume they've switched what sugar they have used since I was a kid but yeah.
I’m 41 and my favorite lunch is red Kool-Aid Bursts with a pizza Lunchable.
I honestly don't know how kids are supposed to become independent today with the same ratio of success we (people in their mid 30s-40s) enjoyed. Hubby and I had 1st little at 21 & our 1st apartment was 645$ a month with 2bdr, 2 bath, washer dryer and trash & water bills were included in rent (this was 2002.) With one decent income or two mid level, very doable. Everything in that same area is now 1800-3k a month but the incomes have not gone up 3-4x to compensate!
Yeah they had tragedy after tragedy growing up causing all sorts of anxieties and the recession came and all those banks foreclosed on houses and only very wealthy had the money to take advantage and bought them all up and turned them into outrageously expensive rentals with zero amenities and then the prices were exponentially raised on college even the public ones and the ppl with the good jobs won't retire and federal minimum wage hasn't increased in decades I think. The kids are not alright.
Load More Replies...Not to be gross, but I'm pretty sure I cleaned this up after the dog got sick last night.
Load More Replies...getting married and living alone? dont that defeat the purpose of getting married?
It says "living on their own", not "living alone". It means they lived together, on their own, as a married couple.
Load More Replies...Flour, looks like farmhouse-style bread. Mould would be blue and appear on the edges of the cut surface first (I know you get white mould, but I've only ever had blue mould on bread unless I've developed an entire ecosystem in a bag.)
Your sitting at your computer with it already in a sandwich bag, I think its too late to start second guessing yourself.
Make sure to save these videos, in case the next generation will energe and wants to continue the picture comparison tradition :)
"Mom with her son she had at 23" - uh, so, OP's brother? I'm a little confused at the wording on this one.
Yeah, this one makes no sense. OP's mom wouldn't have been able to have a son who's 23 in 1997 AND a daughter at 23 in 2024.
Load More Replies...This is confusing but if the son was born in 1980 (he looks about 17, high school dance) then the daughter would be born in 2001. Definitely possible putting the mother at around 44 when the daughter was born. Definitely happens.
I think this is two different people. The first is the mom at around 40 like Karen said, with her son that she had at 23 which would be around 1980. The second pic is the sibling who was born 4 years after the picture on the left. I'm guessing that the awkward language is because they are half siblings or maybe even the younger one is adopted and OP doesn't acknowledge that the kid on the left is their sibling for whatever reason. I don't think it could be the same person because if the person in the left was around 17 in that pic, then they would be 23 in 2003, not 2024.
Looks like the mom is in her 30s and had a kid in her early teens who was 23 in 1997, when the photo was taken.
I disagree, Lucy. Mom HAD her son at 23. First pick is Mom at 40 with 17 y.o. son, (prob. Prom pics.) second pick is Mom's daughter at 23. From the wording, I'd say the child could definitely be the same person.
Load More Replies...I've seen so many comments on similar posts that blame the parents for not teaching today's kids these things. As a latchkey Gen X'r and parent, I have to say A) I did but they didn't pay attention and B) no one showed me this stuff, I had to figure it out.
Agreed! I think this post is sad. It doesn't say much for this generation. Sure it would suck to be married and kids at this age, but to be an adult "toddler"? I'd be ashamed to post I couldn't figure out not to put foil in a microwave.
Load More Replies...I get that times are hard and it's difficult to find good-paying jobs and affordable housing. But having your mom cut up your spaghetti for you? Asking your mom to call and make an appointment? Easter baskets? How can you allow yourselves to continue to be infants?
Woah there, hold up. You have no idea the situations these people have. This generation makes fun of themselves and shares it, they know its laughable. All of these situations could be cause the parents insisted they do it, particularly holiday traditions. It is so much fun being the person to put gifts together for loved ones that many parents just keep doing it and the adult children enjoy receiving them. But, the one asking for their mom to make a call ... that's a bit much. We didn't see a reply so the mom could have told them to eff off lol
Load More Replies...I have a lot of respect for my mom. One time, my pants and shoes got soaked in the rain and I had an exam in 2 hours. I complained over the phone, and she literally made an hour commute just so I'd be comfortable. I think this thread is more about parental love rather than bragging.
It's hard not to compare, particularly with having such a contrast. At my age my mother was a single parent to a high schooler (me) and a toddler, trying to have a decent life. Here I am, childless by choice, with a cat, living in another country working on a PhD. I don't see either situation as a fail, just different paths. Lol granted, I use Google to answer most questions and if I suspect mold, I sniff it lol
If I were one of the youngsters here; showing parents with babies- and me with a cat- living in mom's basement - I would feel a bit uncomfortable. I think many do- there is a slight whiff of apology along with the "big toddler" comments. If you are one who is uncomfortable where you find yourself; try this mind experiment, in a serious way. You're well familiar with movies and anime - put yourself in one- and wind it forward 20 years. You're likely to live much longer; but- 20 years from now- what does your life look like? I can instantly hear some protests of "It's MY life, and I'm HAPPY!" - fine by me- REALLY. But sometimes we - all - hear an echo of Shakespeare- "Methinks the lady doth protest- too much." Your life, yes it is. The Chinese really have a vast store of "sayings"; here's one: "If you do not change your direction, you are likely to wind up where you are heading." Live long, and prosper.
It might be interesting to see these people in five or ten years, maybe they are just taking longer. My parents got married at 21, I got married at 28, my brother got married at 36.
Load More Replies...I worry that these 20-30 year olds are being babies too much. How will they ever be able to take care of themselves? I don't mean just financially, but even, just getting themselves a glass of water, or asking dad, at 23 years old to buy them sushi cuz they're having a bad day. wtf?
I imagine at least half of it is us remembering what our parents went through, then knowing that in today's economy it is all much, much more difficult. Having kids right after you're done being a kid, isn't exactly ideal. I see all these pictures of the parents becoming parents before 25 and think 'wow your braces are barely off'. Sure by your late 20's you should know how to do the basics and be relatively competent, but on the other hand being raised by youngin's isn't exactly ideal either. They have no life experience, no wisdom to offer, no practice at patience, they barely know their butt from a hole in the ground yet. I watched my mom do all that. Noooooo thank you, destroyed her life.
Wait... By your LATE twenties you should have the basics and be competent? Nuh uh. That's why so many of these are people asking ridiculous questions and relying on their parents when they're adults themselves. If we haven't taught our kids the basics we're responsible, but so are our kids. Ask questions. Look it up. Google and YouTube are for more than reading movie plots on Wikipedia and watching makeup reviews.
Load More Replies...As a neglected and abused child with a depressed mother and a brutal father, I had already mastered all these "grown-up" things at the age of 6 and did the housework, shopping and cooking. As soon as I could, I left home. My little brother, on the other hand, was the beloved and spoiled child (they didn't want a girl) and to this day (he is 40) doesn't know how to use a washing machine and he can only cook one dish. But it made me mentally ill and I can no longer work. He is a successful programmer. He can't cook or use a washing machine, but he can program programs that make your life easier. At his house, the milk in the fridge practically buys itself.
Plot twist: Avoiding Mature Responsibility Is The Great Lesson Many of Us Learned From Our Young Parents, and they are happy for us. They had kids at 18-25, bought a house and locked in to career paths. We then watched them live with regrets and miss out on a great many life experiences. My parents are in their 70s and are just now doing all the awesome stuff I did in my 20s. They had kids. I traveled to 27 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia and went to over 100 music festivals. They kept the jobs they started in their teens. I went to college for 7 years, and took the time to explore and really figure out my calling. They bought a 3br/2b home in a boring, suburban subdivision. I rent an apartment, but in a culturally rich, destination city. They took their kids camping on the weekend, I take weekends in Hawaii. I DEEPLY appreciate the sacrifices they made to provide me the opportunity to mature at my own pace. They want me to do all the things they wish they had done.
I'm gonna go call my parents now, and tell them how much I love them. Different choices have different rewards.
Load More Replies...I've seen so many comments on similar posts that blame the parents for not teaching today's kids these things. As a latchkey Gen X'r and parent, I have to say A) I did but they didn't pay attention and B) no one showed me this stuff, I had to figure it out.
Agreed! I think this post is sad. It doesn't say much for this generation. Sure it would suck to be married and kids at this age, but to be an adult "toddler"? I'd be ashamed to post I couldn't figure out not to put foil in a microwave.
Load More Replies...I get that times are hard and it's difficult to find good-paying jobs and affordable housing. But having your mom cut up your spaghetti for you? Asking your mom to call and make an appointment? Easter baskets? How can you allow yourselves to continue to be infants?
Woah there, hold up. You have no idea the situations these people have. This generation makes fun of themselves and shares it, they know its laughable. All of these situations could be cause the parents insisted they do it, particularly holiday traditions. It is so much fun being the person to put gifts together for loved ones that many parents just keep doing it and the adult children enjoy receiving them. But, the one asking for their mom to make a call ... that's a bit much. We didn't see a reply so the mom could have told them to eff off lol
Load More Replies...I have a lot of respect for my mom. One time, my pants and shoes got soaked in the rain and I had an exam in 2 hours. I complained over the phone, and she literally made an hour commute just so I'd be comfortable. I think this thread is more about parental love rather than bragging.
It's hard not to compare, particularly with having such a contrast. At my age my mother was a single parent to a high schooler (me) and a toddler, trying to have a decent life. Here I am, childless by choice, with a cat, living in another country working on a PhD. I don't see either situation as a fail, just different paths. Lol granted, I use Google to answer most questions and if I suspect mold, I sniff it lol
If I were one of the youngsters here; showing parents with babies- and me with a cat- living in mom's basement - I would feel a bit uncomfortable. I think many do- there is a slight whiff of apology along with the "big toddler" comments. If you are one who is uncomfortable where you find yourself; try this mind experiment, in a serious way. You're well familiar with movies and anime - put yourself in one- and wind it forward 20 years. You're likely to live much longer; but- 20 years from now- what does your life look like? I can instantly hear some protests of "It's MY life, and I'm HAPPY!" - fine by me- REALLY. But sometimes we - all - hear an echo of Shakespeare- "Methinks the lady doth protest- too much." Your life, yes it is. The Chinese really have a vast store of "sayings"; here's one: "If you do not change your direction, you are likely to wind up where you are heading." Live long, and prosper.
It might be interesting to see these people in five or ten years, maybe they are just taking longer. My parents got married at 21, I got married at 28, my brother got married at 36.
Load More Replies...I worry that these 20-30 year olds are being babies too much. How will they ever be able to take care of themselves? I don't mean just financially, but even, just getting themselves a glass of water, or asking dad, at 23 years old to buy them sushi cuz they're having a bad day. wtf?
I imagine at least half of it is us remembering what our parents went through, then knowing that in today's economy it is all much, much more difficult. Having kids right after you're done being a kid, isn't exactly ideal. I see all these pictures of the parents becoming parents before 25 and think 'wow your braces are barely off'. Sure by your late 20's you should know how to do the basics and be relatively competent, but on the other hand being raised by youngin's isn't exactly ideal either. They have no life experience, no wisdom to offer, no practice at patience, they barely know their butt from a hole in the ground yet. I watched my mom do all that. Noooooo thank you, destroyed her life.
Wait... By your LATE twenties you should have the basics and be competent? Nuh uh. That's why so many of these are people asking ridiculous questions and relying on their parents when they're adults themselves. If we haven't taught our kids the basics we're responsible, but so are our kids. Ask questions. Look it up. Google and YouTube are for more than reading movie plots on Wikipedia and watching makeup reviews.
Load More Replies...As a neglected and abused child with a depressed mother and a brutal father, I had already mastered all these "grown-up" things at the age of 6 and did the housework, shopping and cooking. As soon as I could, I left home. My little brother, on the other hand, was the beloved and spoiled child (they didn't want a girl) and to this day (he is 40) doesn't know how to use a washing machine and he can only cook one dish. But it made me mentally ill and I can no longer work. He is a successful programmer. He can't cook or use a washing machine, but he can program programs that make your life easier. At his house, the milk in the fridge practically buys itself.
Plot twist: Avoiding Mature Responsibility Is The Great Lesson Many of Us Learned From Our Young Parents, and they are happy for us. They had kids at 18-25, bought a house and locked in to career paths. We then watched them live with regrets and miss out on a great many life experiences. My parents are in their 70s and are just now doing all the awesome stuff I did in my 20s. They had kids. I traveled to 27 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia and went to over 100 music festivals. They kept the jobs they started in their teens. I went to college for 7 years, and took the time to explore and really figure out my calling. They bought a 3br/2b home in a boring, suburban subdivision. I rent an apartment, but in a culturally rich, destination city. They took their kids camping on the weekend, I take weekends in Hawaii. I DEEPLY appreciate the sacrifices they made to provide me the opportunity to mature at my own pace. They want me to do all the things they wish they had done.
I'm gonna go call my parents now, and tell them how much I love them. Different choices have different rewards.
Load More Replies...
