A conceptual analysis of Ageism

Abstract

Presently the research on ageism is marked by numerous more or less diffuse definitions of the concept of ageism. Many studies investigate both the causes and consequences of ageism without a clear definition of the phenomenon. As a consequence the area is characterized by diverging research results which are hard to re-test and to compare. It is therefore difficult to obtain a framework on ageism.This article offers a conceptual clarification of ageism. Based on a review of the existing literature, a new definition of ageism is introduced. This definition is more explicit and complex than previous definitions. This has two purposes. Firstly, its clarity constitutes the foundation for higher reliability and validity in future research about ageism. Secondly, its complexity offers a new way of systemizing theories on ageism.

Taking a closer look at ageism: self- and other-directed ageist attitudes and discrimination

“…Although the practice of ageism and ageist policies can be directed towards people of any age, most research in this area, to date, has addressed the ageism phenomenon in relation to older adults. We note, also, that ageism is a complex domain that includes cognitive, behavioural and emotional manifestations (Iversen et al 2009). Moreover, ageism tends to reinforce social inequalities as it is more pronounced towards older women, poor people or those with dementia (Barnett 2005;Rippon et al 2014).…”

Hard and soft age discrimination: the dual nature of workplace discrimination

“…Butler's first definition of ageism as ''a process of systematic stereotyping and discrimination against people because they are old'' (Butler 1975: 35) was refined in many ways. Several decades later, research on ageism expanded the understanding of the concept and encompassed different types (Iversen et al 2009). Among the most noteworthy are the distinctions between positive and negative ageism (Palmore 1999), implicit and explicate ageism (Blackburn 2006;Levy and Banaji 2004;Malinen and Johnston 2013) and personal and institutional ageism (Bytheway 1995;Palmore 1999;Palmore et al 2005).…”

Origins of Ageism at the Individual Level

“…According to his early definition, ageism is an age discrimination which is reflected in the prejudice of one age group toward other age groups (Butler 1969). Although ageism can be aimed at younger age groups (Snape and Redman 2003), most of the theoretical and empirical research on ageism has focused on the old age group (Iversen et al 2009). Butler himself refined his definition of ageism in 1975 as "a process of systematic stereotyping and discrimination against people because they are old" (Butler 1975).…”