Kheiron Module 3

When we talk about social mentoring between people of different generations, gender challenges intersect with the cultural mandates of each era. Intergenerational relationships are crossed by very different worldviews in terms of gender, identity and social role. In a mentoring process involving people of different ages, tensions, misunderstandings or even unintentional judgements may arise. Specific characteristics of intergenerational gender challenges: Accelerated changes in gender discourses O lder people may be unfamiliar with concepts such as gender identity, inclusive language or non-normative gender expression. Differences in expected roles A younger person may not be comfortable with hierarchical forms of authority from previous generations. Different historical experiences O lder women may have lived with strong restrictions, which generates admiration, but also clashes with contemporary feminisms. Lack of mutual listening Each generation may feel judged or misunderstood by the other. Tensions common to different generations: Different understandings of gender and its expressions what one generation considers ‘natural’ or ‘appropriate’ may be seen as oppressive or outdated by another. Difficulties in recognising reproductive and care work Older generations may have assumed traditional roles without questioning them, while younger generations may be in the process of unlearning them. Gaps in language and identities Terms, pronouns and approaches to gender have evolved, which can lead to resistance or misunderstanding. Gender Perspective, Diversity and Inclusion in Mentoring 07