I would say that the younger generation is more forward in dealing with things.
generation X likes to hide in a wash of nostalgia and unearned superiority.
look at their community comedy: The girl puts herself out there, knowing somethings going to be done with what she says.
another works with the material to make a joke and others follow suit independently and it becomes a community project.
if anything, the newer generations are tougher and more caustic with each other. much more forward.