Youths a Lost Generation?

It seems quite fashionable among certain groups to lament the youths’ failings - lack of  drive and ambition, lying flat, being lazy, taking things for granted, wanting to enjoy life without having to work hard, complaining rather than working to solve the problem, etc.  Many who espouse such views seem to be adult males. Some seem to consider themselves successful in life - possibly because the success gives them the confidence to speak out, or simply because those who consider themselves less successful are too busy to speak?  

Often, however, these opinions seem to be based on perceptions rather than rigorous research, or even large amounts of data.  Surely, if large numbers of people - particularly if it is people who hold the power - believe in something, then it deserves attention.  Because it is going to have an impact - simply because these people have power.  But not necessarily because it is true.  In fact, it is pretty unfair if it is not true.  

At this point, it is not quite sure whether that sentiment reflects reality.  There really does not seem to be a lot of rigorous research on the matter, beyond anecdotal statements and beliefs.  Perhaps the current generation of youths are no worse than the previous generation (or generations)?  Perhaps it is common practice that every generation of adults lament the youths of their days?  When someone feels being successful in life, one may be psychologically predisposed to feel that one’s success is due to hard work, rather than good fortune or external assistance, whether that is true or not.  Starting from this assumption, one is inclined to think that if the youths desire similar success, they should just work hard, but not to expect any favours from anyone.  In reality, however, circumstances, fortune, and assistance may play a significant role in one’s life.  Hard work is only one of the factors. 

And what if the sentiment (that the quality of current generations of youths is “poor”)  truly reflects the reality?  What is the cause of this reality?  Are the current generation of youths born that way?  Or they simply decide to give up? Perhaps their “poor” attitude is the result of a hostile environment - created or at least partially moulded by the current generation of adults who have been in power?  In that case, aren’t the adults responsible for the “undesirable” situation?