Generation X, often called Gen X, is the demographic cohort born roughly between 1965 and 1980, following the Baby Boomers and preceding the Millennials. Gen Xers grew up during a period of shifting societal values and are sometimes referred to as the "Latchkey Generation" due to many returning home from school to empty houses because of increased parental workforce participation and rising divorce rates. This generation witnessed cultural phenomena like MTV, the rise of personal computers, and major geopolitical changes such as the end of the Cold War. Gen X tends to be characterized as independent, resourceful, and pragmatic, often striving for a work-life balance. They are sometimes described as cynical and disaffected, shaped by the economic and social tumult they experienced growing up. Gen X is known for being the "middle child" generation, typically smaller in size than the Baby Boomers and Millennials, and has been influential in cultural trends from music genres like grunge and hip-hop to technology adoption. They are often entrepreneurial and productive in the workplace and value independence and balance in life.