Ageism: Prejudice Against Our Feared Future Self

Abstract

For decades, researchers have discovered much about how humans automatically categorize others in social perception. Some categorizations-race, gender, and age-are so automatic that they are termed "primitive categories." As we categorize, we often develop stereotypes about the categories. Researchers know much about racism and sexism, but comparatively little about prejudicing and stereotyping based on age. The articles in this issue highlight the current empirical and theoretical work by researchers in gerontology, psychology, communication, and related fields on understanding the origins and consequences of stereotyping and prejudicing against older adults. With the aging baby boomer demographic, it is especially timely for researchers to work to understand how society can shed its institutionalized ageism and promote respect for elders.

Aging in America: Ageism and General Attitudes toward Growing Old and the Elderly

“…The United States population of those 65 years of age and older is estimated to double from 2000 to 2030 [5]. This growing population trend is going to bring with it an increased importance in public policy regarding health services, community services, and larger institutional practices.…”

“…This fear of aging manifests itself in many different ways, including prejudicial attitudes and even discrimination toward the elderly. Nelson (2005) suggests that this fear of aging is a socially condoned prejudice that strips the elderly of power and dignity. It is through the use of patronizing language, along with a general negative disposition toward the elderly (e.g., as being burdens on society), that is at the heart of this larger social problem [5].…”

Pathways from Ageism to Loneliness

“…In the light of technological advances, older people's work experience became outdated, and their work obviated. Simultaneous advances in medicine extended people's lives, and as the older population grew in size, they came to be regarded as non-contributing burdens on society (Nelson 2005).…”

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

“…Moreover, ageism might exacerbate the negative impact of other forms of discrimination, including sexism and racism. Nevertheless, in contrast to the high prevalence of ageism in society, research on ageism is only beginning to emerge (Nelson 2005).…”