Unit 3 reading "Stereotype Embodiment" "Age Stereotypes and Aging" Flashcards
What is stereotype embodiment?
Stereotype embodiment is when stereotypes from the external environment/culture (eg. societal beliefs about aging) become internalized, influencing self-perception, health, and functioning. It involves four components: internalization across the lifespan, unconscious operation, self-relevance, and multiple pathways of influence
What are the four components of stereotype embodiment?
- Internalization across the lifespan.
- Stereotypes can operate unconsciously.
- Self-relevance; societal stereotype becomes personally meaningful because they see it being applied to them
- Stereotypes influence functioning through multiple pathways (psychological, behavioral, and physiological)
How do age stereotypes operate unconsciously?
Studies show that even when stereotypes are subliminally (affected without being aware) activated, they influence behavior.
- This occurs through Implicit processes
(automatic activation)
For instance, people exposed to negative age stereotypes may perform worse in physical and cognitive tasks
How do implicit and explicit age stereotypes differ?
Implicit stereotypes operate unconsciously and often favor younger individuals over older adults. In contrast, explicit stereotypes are consciously held beliefs, which can be more positive or negative depending on individual experience
What is self-stereotyping, and how does it affect older adults?
Self-stereotyping occurs when older adults unconsciously assimilate into age-related stereotypes, affecting behaviors such as memory performance, physical health, and self-perception
How do cultural differences affect age stereotypes?
Some cultures, such as those in East Asia, may hold more positive stereotypes about aging due to values like filial piety, which emphasize respect for older individuals, while Western cultures may have more negative stereotypes
