I think this is something to do with the generational reaffirmation of youth since the WWII kicked off a later 20th century imbalance of the proportion of young people in the world.
Now that the number of youngsters is simply twice or more than before and the chances of meeting up with and engaging with seniors diminished by other factors such as wealth creating retirement conurbations and the dissolution of multi generational households, young people just aren't comfortable with older folk any more. I have noticed this anecdotally of course personally rather pointedly immediately after I grew a beard that happens to be white despite my age being a tiny 50 something. The sudden and unmistakable difference in the way I experienced society has been revealing and at times even rather worrying.
Perhaps it's a matter of what area you live in. Since I've grown a gray beard, I've found almost everyone, including younger people, treat me with a level of deference and respect that they didn't before.
Multi generation household or live close by has been a thing even in city. At least in Uk I observed. The current Fb being old guy media precisely lived in this space. How many kids solely on fb for their peers.
Now that the number of youngsters is simply twice or more than before and the chances of meeting up with and engaging with seniors diminished by other factors such as wealth creating retirement conurbations and the dissolution of multi generational households, young people just aren't comfortable with older folk any more. I have noticed this anecdotally of course personally rather pointedly immediately after I grew a beard that happens to be white despite my age being a tiny 50 something. The sudden and unmistakable difference in the way I experienced society has been revealing and at times even rather worrying.