A Terror Management Perspective on Ageism
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-16-2005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4560.2005.00403.x
Abstract
In the present article, we present a theoretical perspective on ageism that is derived from terror management theory. According to the theory, human beings manage deeply‐rooted fears about their vulnerability to death through symbolic constructions of meaning and corresponding standards of value. We extend this perspective to suggest that elderly individuals present an existential threat for the non‐elderly because they remind us all that: (a) death is inescapable, (b) the body is fallible, and (c) the bases by which we may secure self‐esteem (and manage death anxiety) are transitory. We review some recent empirical evidence in support of these ideas and then discuss possible avenues for combating ageism.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
No
Citation / Publisher Attribution
Journal of Social Issues, v. 61, issue 2, p. 223-239
Scholar Commons Citation
Martens, Andy; Goldenberg, Jamie L.; and Greenberg, Jeff, "A Terror Management Perspective on Ageism" (2005). Psychology Faculty Publications. 1512.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/psy_facpub/1512
