The Stereotype of 'Old' -- A Review and Alternative Approach

Abstract

Within the literature, a negative stereotype of “old” has been emphasized which, it has been argued, is important for self-concept in late life. This paper questions the validity of this argument and presents an alternative model more congruent with extant data. Forty-seven reports of research on stereotypes of old age were analyzed. It was found that 21 studies utilized older persons in the sample, and half of these were based on institutionalized or indigent aged. A positive stereotype of old age was reported in several studies. Thus, the assumption that the aged accept a negative stereotype of old age may not be valid. An alternative theoretical model is presented. From the framework of cognitive dissonance theory, it is argued that the acceptance of a negative or positive stereotype by the aged is related to objective indicators of old age, the subjective definition of self, and self-concept.