Gen X (born 1965 to 1980) is often referred to as the “forgotten generation” because it is sandwiched between the much larger Baby Boomer and Millennial generations. However, the “forgotten” label carries a special meaning for younger Gen Xers, as they were likely the least parented group of kids in American history. Those born in the 1970s were raised in a time when more households were dual-income and the number of divorced parents was increasing. Many wore keys around their necks and took care of themselves after school.

Younger Gen Xers also grew up when parents were more permissive, allowing them to stay out all day on their bikes. They only knew it was time to come home when the street lights came on. They also grew up in the last analog era without cellphones, and parents had to call around various houses to find out where their kids were. Sure, being a kid in those days was a little risky, but it also fostered a fantastic sense of independence.

 This experience isn’t completely limited to Gen Xers; some older millennials also experienced this type of freedom. Because kids born between 1970 and 1985 had a very specific experience, some born in this era have taken to calling themselves Generation Goonie, after the 1985 film, “The Goonies” starring Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Ke Huy Quan, and Corey Feldman.

“The Goonies” was a children’s movie based on a story by Steven Spielberg, with a screenplay by Chris Columbus (who would go on........

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