PSY322H1 Lecture Notes - Totalitarianism, Terror Management Theory, Primitive Culture
Document Summary
Subtle type of prejudice that arises out of the conscious and unconscious fears and anxiety one has of growing old. More pernicious stereotyping process in which older people are regarded as worthless. Like old-fashioned racism, one is less likely to see blatant examples of malignant ageism in society today. Hence benign ageism is much more common. People with very positive attitudes toward older people often seem to communicate with older people according to negative stereotypes about older persons. Young individuals become overly polite, speak louder and slower, exaggerate their intonations, have a higher pitch and talk in simple sentences with elders. Based on the stereotypes that older people have hearing problems, decreasing intellect, and slower cognitive functioning. Older adults who have lower functional abilities see this as soothing and nurturing quality. Older adults with higher functional abilities see this as disrespectful.