The Mood and Culture of the U.S. has changed substantially over the last decade: What the Research Means David Kinnaman, president of Barna Group, discusses several implications of the research: “Overall, this research shows the mood of Americans has changed in substantial ways. Our nation’s population has settled into the “new normal” of the economy, mostly with optimism and a can-do attitude, though millions are struggling to stay afloat in terms of their perception of financial thriving. In particular, many within the nation’s non-white population continue to feel a substantial gap between reality and ideal. Their aspirations for a better life are part of what defines millions of Hispanics and blacks today.” Such self-perceptions, Kinnaman adds, are something leaders need to pay attention to. “Self-perception is a fascinating science and should be turned into action by political, social and faith leaders,” he says. “Ideally, research should enable us to better communicate and lead our followers to a clearly defined preferable future.” The research also highlights the fact that some household structures struggle more than others, singles and divorcees, in particular. “The simple fact is that ‘unmarried America’ perceives itself to be lonelier, more indebted and more aspirational about getting ahead in life than the married cohort of Americans,” Kinnaman says. “While marriage is not a realistic option for everyone, the nation’s continued shift away from marriage as the standard household type to one of digitally connected tribes of ‘friends’ is going to have significant impact on the psychographics of the nation in the next decade.” He continues: “As a nation, we are embracing the digital revolution and, ironically, we are becoming a lonelier population. While there are many benefits of being participants in possibly the most relationally connected age in human history, the social media revolution has not made us feel more connected, less lonely, or replete with friends.” “Finally, the research points to many opportunities for the Christian community—the original social network—to provide genuine responses to the needs of today’s culture,” Kinnaman concludes. “The Church, when functioning properly, can address the rising epidemic of loneliness, financial strain and indebtedness, increasing concerns about morality, among many other things. Faith communities must respond to the “fearful” realities of the future with wisdom and love. After all, Jesus teaches that we should not be anxious about tomorrow, not even the changing psychographics of Americans.’’ https://barna.org/barna-update/culture/624-how-the-last-decade-changed-american-life#.UggE_ZKTiSq
Posted on: Sun, 11 Aug 2013 21:52:55 +0000
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