Generation X once prided itself on its edgy skepticism and rugged individualism, sitting comfortably between Boomer traditionalism and Millennial sensitivity. However, as social consciousness evolves, certain hallmarks of Gen X culture have curdled from revolutionary to reactionary. From the myth of hyper-individualism to the “Cool Girl” who’s “not like other women,” these once-defining characteristics now read less as badges of honor and more as defense mechanisms against a changing world.

Gen X Feminists: A Brief Overview

Gen X feminists hit the scene in the ’80s and ’90s as the daughters of second-wave feminism who definitely did their own thing. Born roughly between 1965 and 1980, these women came of age during the AIDS crisis, watched the Anita Hill drama unfold, and sparked what we now call third-wave feminism. They were all about “girl power,” riot grrrl punk, and figuring out early internet activism while telling beauty standards and workplace inequality to take a hike. Unlike their boomer moms, Gen X feminists brought a healthy dose of irony, loved picking apart pop culture, and had a total DIY attitude. Think Kathleen Hanna, Rebecca Walker, and Naomi Wolf—women who valued doing feminism their own way while still tackling the big sexist structures, even if they weren’t quite as intersectional as today’s feminists tend to be.

10 Top Negative Gen X traits that Haven’t Aged Well

  1. Hyper-Individualism – Still believing that “if I made it, anyone can,” ignoring systemic barriers that prevent success.
  2. Resisting Intersectionality – Struggling to recognize that race, class, gender identity, and disability shape feminist struggles in different ways.
  3. Toxic Empowerment – Thinking empowerment means “acting like a man” rather than redefining power structures altogether.
  4. Anti-Motherhood Stigma – Viewing traditional roles like motherhood as inherently oppressive rather than seeing them as a personal choice.
  5. Dismissal of Younger Feminists – Accusing Millennials and Gen Z of being “too sensitive” rather than recognizing the evolution of feminist discourse.
  6. Sex-Positive, But at What Cost? – Promoting the idea that empowerment comes from hypersexualization without questioning whether women are truly in control of that narrative.
  7. Corporate Feminism – Believing feminism is about breaking glass ceilings for a few women rather than addressing wage gaps, worker exploitation, and economic inequality for all.
  8. Cool Girl Mentality – Still clinging to the idea that being “one of the guys” is the highest form of female empowerment.
  9. Respectability Politics – Emphasizing professionalism and assimilation over radical change.
  10. Fear of Being “Canceled” – Complaining about cancel culture instead of engaging in self-reflection and growth.

Gen X feminism paved the way for important gains, but to stay relevant and meaningful, it has to evolve. Younger generations are pushing for feminism that is more inclusive, intersectional, and systemic—challenging Gen X to either adapt or get left behind. What do you think—do you see these traits playing out in your life or with people around you?

5 Steps to Unlearning Problematic Gen X Feminist Behavior

If you’re a Gen X feminist who recognizes these problematic patterns in yourself or others, the good news is change is possible—but it requires self-awareness, accountability, and a willingness to unlearn old habits.

Here’s how to start:

1. Acknowledge & Reflect on Internalized Misogyny

Before real change can happen, you have to be honest about the ways you’ve absorbed and perpetuated patriarchal values. Ask yourself:

  • Have I dismissed or minimized other women’s experiences with harassment or assault?
  • Have I protected problematic men in my life because it was easier?
  • Do I prioritize my own job security or social standing over standing up for other women?
  • Have I ever labeled a younger woman “too sensitive” or “dramatic” instead of listening to her concerns?

This step is uncomfortable, but you can’t fix what you refuse to acknowledge.

2. Stop Defending Problematic Men & Institutions

One of the hardest but most necessary shifts is letting go of blind loyalty to men or institutions that have caused harm.

  • If someone you admire has been called out for abuse, don’t rush to defend them—listen to the accusations with an open mind.
  • If a workplace culture protects harassers, don’t justify it with “That’s just how it is.” Challenge the system instead of adapting to it.
  • If a friend shares her experience of harm, believe her—don’t minimize or question her motives.

If feminism is about justice and equality, then justice must come before personal loyalty.

3. Embrace Intersectional Feminism

Gen X feminism often centered white, middle-class women’s struggles while ignoring race, class, disability, and gender identity.

Modern feminism demands a broader, more inclusive perspective.

  • Follow and learn from Black, Indigenous, and queer feminists who have been leading these conversations for decades.
  • Recognize that feminism isn’t just about corporate success—it’s about dismantling oppression for all women, not just the privileged few.
  • Amplify and support marginalized voices rather than feeling threatened by them.

The goal is not just to make space for other women—it’s to rebuild feminism to serve everyone.

4. Shift from Self-Preservation to Solidarity

A major reason Gen X women stayed silent in the past was self-preservation—choosing career safety over calling out injustice. But real feminism means having each other’s backs, even when it’s inconvenient.

  • If you see a woman being mistreated at work, support her, don’t distance yourself.
  • If a friend is experiencing harassment, stand by her, even if it costs you social comfort.
  • If someone younger is pushing for accountability, listen instead of dismissing her as “too radical.”

Feminism isn’t about just getting ahead in the system—it’s about changing the system for everyone.

5. Stay Open to Growth & Criticism

One of the biggest mistakes Gen X feminists make is getting defensive when their past beliefs or behaviors are called out. Instead:

  • Welcome feedback from younger generations instead of resisting it.
  • Admit when you were wrong instead of doubling down.
  • Commit to ongoing learning—feminism evolves, and so should you.

The measure of true feminism isn’t how much you fought in the past—it’s whether you’re still fighting for justice today.

Final Thought: Change Is an Ongoing Process

Unlearning problematic behavior isn’t about guilt—it’s about growth. If you recognize yourself in any of these patterns, don’t get stuck in shame. Instead, commit to doing better.

What are your thoughts? Are there areas where you’ve seen Gen X feminists struggle to adapt? Or ways you’ve already started making these changes?