Children's Descriptions of and Attitudes Toward the Elderly

Children's Attitudes Toward Older Adults and Aging: A Synthesis of Research

“…Parents and adult family members serve as an initial source of aging information; their attitudes and treatment of older adults are observed and learned by children at a young age and can affect a child's perception of older adults (Wishard, 2003). Language, humor, and various forms of media, particularly books and television, also provide children with information about aging and older adults (Chamberlain, Fetterman, & Maher, 1994;Fillmer, 1984). Fillmer (1984) found that a majority of elderly characters on television are portrayed negatively as ''villains or victims'' (p. 100).…”

Knowledge of Aging Among Secondary School Students in South-Eastern Nigeria

“…This, researchers argue, may be because of societal emphasis on youth and youthful looks (Ansello, 1978;Falchikov, 1990;Fillmer, 1984;Jantz, Seefeldt, & Serock, 1977;Zandi, Mirle, & Jarvis, 1990). …”

Intergenerating Activities and Aging Appreciation of Elementary School Children

“…for the older persons when asked to react to the pictures of young and old. Fillmer (1984) reported that childrenÄs stereotypes of aging are perpetuated by the media. Lutsky (1986) cautioned researchers about making a distinction between attitudes toward aging and attitudes toward older persons.…”

“…Although children made more negative attributions for the photographs of older adults than the younger adults, it was done so for older men more so than the older women. Fillmer (1984) reported that fourth, üfth, and sixth grades stereotyped the elderly as depicted in the media. Murphy- Russell, Die, and Walker (1986) noted that discussion with peers, direct experience with older people, and information from ülms contributed to enhancing positive attitudes toward aging.…”