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Sidekick: Decoding Connection Across Generations
Bridging Generational Divides: The Prasopkarn Project
The "Prasopkarn" project, initiated by Sidekick in collaboration with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (สสส.), is a groundbreaking effort to reduce age-related biases (ageism) in Thailand. Recognizing that ageism fosters discrimination and judgments based on age, the project seeks to bridge generational gaps and promote mental health by fostering empathy, respect, and meaningful intergenerational interactions.
The Connectors: A New Approach to Age Bias
Over two years, Sidekick conducted research involving 611 individuals across age groups (15-18, 19-30, 31-50, and 51-70) to identify a unique group termed “Connectors.” Representing 20% of the population, these individuals naturally demonstrate openness, empathy, and respect for perspectives regardless of age.
Collaborating with Thammasat University, Sidekick identified four key behaviors that define Connectors:
Appreciate: Valuing efforts and supporting ideas at every step, not just the outcome.
Listen: Actively listening to diverse perspectives and creating space for all voices equally.
Learn from Mistakes: Openly sharing personal mistakes to promote growth and acceptance of imperfection.
Open: Cultivating safe spaces for honest, fear-free discussions.
These behaviors were captured in the acronym A.L.M.O. and represented through engaging “Furry Monsters” characters, making the concepts accessible and easy to adopt.
Pilot Activities and Outcomes
To bring the A.L.M.O. framework to life, the project piloted hands-on activities where youth collaborated with adults embodying or trained in Connector traits. These activities, centered on shared interests like storytelling and photography, aimed to reshape how youth perceive adults and themselves.
The impact was profound. Evaluations by Mahidol University's research team revealed:
Increased willingness among youth to engage in meaningful discussions with adults.
A stronger desire to learn from adults.
These positive changes were sustained even six months after the pilot concluded.
Youth participants began to see adults not as authority figures, but as individuals with valuable insights and shared experiences. This shift broke down generational stereotypes, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Why This Matters
According to research by the World Health Organization, ASEAN countries, including Thailand, face some of the highest levels of ageism globally, with rates reaching up to 86.4%. This underscores the urgency of addressing age-related biases and finding innovative solutions to bridge generational divides.
The Prasopkarn project’s Connector approach provides a scalable model for fostering empathy and inclusivity. By creating environments rooted in respect and understanding, this initiative lays the groundwork for cultural transformation.
Looking Ahead
Building on its success, Sidekick is collaborating with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation to explore expanding the program into mainstream education. The ultimate goal is to create a more inclusive and empathetic society, where generational differences are celebrated rather than divisive.
The Prasopkarn project is not just about reducing ageism—it’s about reshaping culture and building a future where people of all ages connect, collaborate, and thrive together.
Find out more on our project website (in Thai) https://www.sidekick.asia/prasopkarn
