Sociology 13.4 Theoretical Perspectives on Aging

continuity theory

According to this theory, the elderly make specific choices to maintain consistency in internal (personality structure, beliefs) and external structures (relationships), remaining active and involved throughout their elder years.

activity theory

According to this theory, the more active and involved an elderly person is, the happier he or she will be.

subculture of aging theory

This theory suggests that elders will disengage from society and develop new patterns of interaction with peers who share common backgrounds and interests.

Modernization theory

suggests that the primary cause of the elderly losing power and influence in society are the parallel forces of industrialization and modernization.

disengagement theory

suggests that withdrawing from society and social relationships is a natural part of growing old.

exchange theory

suggests we experience an increased dependence as we age and must increasingly submit to the will of others because we have fewer ways of compelling others to submit to us.

gerotranscendence

the idea that as people age, they transcend the limited views of life they held in earlier times.

age stratification theory

suggest that members of society might be stratified by age, just as they are stratified by race, class, and gender.