Social Change Theories Flashcards
Describe Role Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
This theory proposes that as people go through role changes they lose part of their social identity, leading to a lowering of self-esteem and self-confidence because their old roles are not replaced with new meaningful roles, such as a new job or life partner.
Activity Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
Older persons who are more socially active are more likely to adjust well to aging. Social activity is a basis for role enactment, and increased opprotunities for role enactment increase a person’s self-concept. Studies have shown that greater social involvement increases a person’s morale, satisfaction, and mental health.
Disengagement Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
Disengagement theory proposes that the aging person chooses to withdraw from social events. By withdrawal, the aging person protects himself or herself from the frustrations of not being able to completely fulfill previously held roles.
Continuity Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
Some theorists believe that lifestyle and personality are important to a person’s adjustment to aging. Continuing one’s previous activities, roles, and coping mechanisms is a critical factor in adjustment. Thus a highly socialized person will adjust better by continuing sociability, whereas a less social person will adjust better with less social activity.
Age Stratification Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
Some theorists believe that birth cohorts, people born about the same time, share similar characteristics. The historical events they’ve experienced shape their attitudes and behaviors.
Modernization Theory
Social Changes affecting aging adults
This theory argues that the role status of the aged are inversely related to the level of industrialization in society. More elderly are forced into retirement, and this trend results in a decline in the status or older individuals.
