A __________________ is a set of persons who were born at the same historical time and who experience particular social changes within a given culture in the same sequence and age.

A cohort is defined as a group of individuals who share a common characteristic, typically being born around the same time, and thus experiencing significant social changes within a particular culture in a similar manner. This concept is critical in social work and sociology as it helps professionals understand how various sociocultural factors influence behaviors, attitudes, and experiences across generations.

For instance, cohorts can be used to study the impact of major historical events—like wars, economic depressions, or technological advancements—on those who lived through them. By analyzing cohorts, social workers can gain insights into the unique challenges and strengths of specific age groups, which can inform more tailored and effective interventions or support services.

Understanding cohorts is vital for developing programs that address the needs of a specific generation, allowing social workers to consider how shared experiences—such as growing up during a recession or the influence of social media—shape individuals' perspectives and needs.