Generational cohort theory suggests that individuals who experience significant social or historical events during their formative years will develop similar beliefs and behaviors as adults. Key theorists on generational cohorts include Karl Mannheim, William Strauss and Neil Howe. Their work identifies three types of effects that shape generations: period effects from broader social changes, life cycle effects from aging, and generational effects from shared experiences during childhood. Subsequent generations like Millennials and Gen Z have faced different formative experiences and display unique characteristics compared to older cohorts.