Zillennials Versus Millennials: Attitudes Toward Gender, Culture, and Migration
摘要
This study explores the interrelation between attitudes on gender, culture, and migration among Millennial and Zillennial students at a Greek university. These attitudes, often framed dichotomously, are frequent sources of discrimination in contemporary societies. The interplay between culture and migration is evident, focusing strongly on the dynamics developed at a destination through peoples’ interaction, coexistence, and the dilution of different values from one culture to another. The gender dimension may be distinct from the concepts of culture and migration, but still, there is this suspicion that even within the most developed western societies, women are less favored than men. The research aims to uncover underlying assumptions about these topics among the youngest two generations of university students in Greece. Using a survey questionnaire, this case study analyzes students’ perceptions through descriptive analysis. Results indicate that participants demonstrate open-mindedness toward gender equality, value intercultural competencies, employ appropriate linguistic strategies in cross-cultural communication, and hold positive attitudes toward migration. Notably, no significant differences were observed between millennial and zillennial cohorts. Participants did not validate social stereotypes and emphasized the importance of openness, flexibility, and empathy in intercultural interactions. The majority of respondents employed appropriate linguistic strategies when communicating with people who do not speak their mother tongue. This study, the first of its kind conducted in a Greek university context, contributes valuable insights into evolving attitudes on critical social issues among emerging generations, providing a foundation for further research and potential policy implications in higher education and beyond.