Social Representations Theory and the STAM: Acceptance of the Internet among Older Adults

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the social representations and acceptance of the Internet among older adults through the STAM. The participants consisted of 18 older adults divided into three groups based on their level of inclusion (low, medium/high, and low/medium). Before and after the group sessions, an attitude questionnaire was administered online. The questionnaire items underwent descriptive and relational analysis, while the data from the focus group were subjected to content analysis. We observed that the first group displayed a potential rejection of the technology due to concerns about time loss and a lack of perceived usefulness. In contrast, the second and third groups viewed the Internet as a tool that brings families together and requires patience, leading to a greater intention to use it and experimentation. The study identified that the older adults’ thoughts, attitudes, and social representations, not only about the Internet but also about aging, significantly influenced their intention to use the Internet and their perception of its usefulness.