What Is the Honey Badger Generation?
If your child is born between 1997 and 2010, he or she belongs to Generation Z. Kids of that generation are also known as “Gen-Zer,” or “Zoomers,” or “iGen.” What do you call, then, those born after 2010?
Introducing Generation Alpha, defined as those born between 2010 and 2024. This generation has somehow earned a nickname: the honey badger.
The honey badger metaphor originated more than a decade ago when the oldest members of Generation Alpha were infants and young toddlers.
The current use of the phrase was popularized on TikTok by the user @ThatPsychNP, who has made videos about "Gen Alpha honey badgers" since at least August 2022. The term has gained significant traction in the last few months as other TikTokers began posting videos adopting the phrase.
Generation Alpha can challenge and refuse to accept the status quo, questioning rules and customs that may seem arbitrary or hypocritical.
Parenting styles, technology, and exposure to global issues like the pandemic and Black Lives Matter protests have influenced Generation Alpha's mindset.
Honey badger kids tend to lead their peers, thrive on positive attention, and are less likely to be victims of bullying. If they harness this drive, they can grow into very successful individuals.
Fearlessness can foster creativity and innovation, but it can also lead to difficulties in following directions and adhering to rules.
My purpose in writing this article is not to sing the praises of the Honey Badger Generation. It is true that what you praise will be repeated. Therefore, be selective in which behaviours you praise.
Also, ascribing labels like “Strawberry Generation,” “Honey Badger Generation,” or something else should be avoided. It creates a stereotype of everyone belonging to that generation without recognizing the uniqueness of each individual.