Forms and importance of respectful attitude toward adults among Generation Z students in Private Higher Education Institution

Abstract

This study investigated the forms of respectful attitudes frequently practiced and given importance by Generation Z Psychology students toward adults at Central Philippine University, examining significant differences based on sex, type of residence, and family orientation. A sample of 459 undergraduate students from the psychology program was surveyed online using Google Forms. The results revealed that Linguistic Respect was the most frequently practiced form, while both Linguistic Respect and Care Respect were perceived as most important by Gen-Z students. These findings suggest that the younger generation, particularly Generation Z, often expresses respect for older adults by consistently utilizing appropriate language and providing services as well as attending to their physical and emotional needs, viewing it as the primary and most significant way to show reverence towards them. Furthermore, the findings revealed significant differences in the frequency o f practice of the forms o f respect in the categories of sex, residential setting, and family orientations. Likewise, significant differences were found in the perceived importance of the forms of respect in the categories of sex and residential setting except for family orientation. The research highlights the notable influence of demographic variables on the frequency of respectful behavior and the perceived importance of respect among Gen-Z towards older adults. Implications for educators, intergenerational and gerontological studies, and future researchers were discussed.