Socioemotional Selectivity Theory: Aging and Media Preferences

Abstract

Although older age is associated with cognitive and physical decline and a general decrease in social contacts, research shows that emotional functioning seems to remain stable or even improve with increasing age. Socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) can explain this seemingly paradoxical situation. The theory claims that the perception of (life) time plays a central role in how human beings select and pursue social and emotional goals. Younger adults generally select goals to build their identity and acquire knowledge that might be useful in the future. As a result, they tend to have relatively large social networks. In contrast, older adults tend to have limited social contacts that they use for emotion regulation. These age‐related differences are also reflected in both media uses and effects. More precisely, older adults tend to use media that suits their emotional goals, whereas younger adults seek media content that serves their interest for new and intense (emotional) experiences. The present entry discusses SST and its application to media psychological research. The entry ends with a critical outlook and possible avenues for future research.

Instant messaging and relationship satisfaction across different ages and cultures

“…Hence, limited-time perception results in the activation of motivational goals that are more person-focused (e.g., seeking emotion and meaning) as opposed to future-focused (e.g., gaining new knowledge and establishing new social contacts). SST emphasizes selective social interaction with increasing age which offers testable predictions about age differences in the way social media communication is appraised (Hofer, 2020). Older people tend to prioritize emotionally closer relationships over less fulfilling ones which should also be expressed in preferences regarding the mode of communication with others.…”