A study was conducted to see if there were any significant differences between the Boomers and the Xers in the extent to which they valued teams. 

Recent literature has been pointing to the fact that, in the workplace, there has been a growing state of tension and conflict between the Baby Boomers, those between 55 and 37 years of age, and Generation X, those between 36 and 18 years of age. A study was conducted to see if there were any significant differences between the Boomers and the Xers in the extent to which they valued teams. The study yielded the unexpected result that the Xers were significantly more team-oriented than were the Boomers. A second study was immediately undertaken to see whether there were any significant differences in terms of individualism versus collectivism between the generations. The second study showed that the Xers were significantly more individualistic than the Boomers. The com- bined finding from both studies (i.e., that Generation Xis significantly more team-oriented and more individualistic than the Baby Boomers suggests that team building is as important as ever but must be con- ducted under a different paradigm.

Major differences between the two generations are presented, as well as a comparison of two polar models for team development. The Tradi- tional model, which is supportive of Boomer values, is presented and contrasted to the Authentic model, which originates in the Gestalt theory base and is more closely associated with the Xers' values, as suggested by the research. Ten suggestions are presented for working with teams that include Generation Xers.