The divorce rate increased significantly, dispersing the immediate family. Extended family also became more dispersed as mobility increased and families moved to follow careers. With Generation X came an increase in single mothers, as well as dual-income households. Many Xers came home from school to empty houses. There has also been an increase in the number of children living with single fathers.
Any multigenerational situation is a potential clash site.
Perhaps the biggest clash of values results from the differences in views of marriage. The Builders, of course, feel that once married it is until death do us part. The Boomers, with their fast-paced lifestyle, rejection of traditional values and focus on their own needs, see divorce as a solution when relationships become difficult. Many Xers are scared by the marriage patterns of their parents. Xers are therefore hesitant to get into a marriage and tend to wait longer if they do choose to wed.