Ageism and Age Discrimination in the Family: Applying an Intergenerational Critical Consciousness Approach

TLDR: This paper reviewed theories and evidence on the manifestations of ageism and age discrimination, drawing from an ecological framework emphasizing the importance of structural systems, and then focused on ageism in the family.

Abstract: Ageism and negative age stereotypes can be expressed unconsciously and consciously through microaggressions in interpersonal interactions, through social and cultural institutional messaging, and through exposure to and encounters with systems of law, government, employment and healthcare. The negative impact of age stereotypes on older adults has been well documented, yet the experience of older adults and ageism within the family has been understudied. This paper reviews theories and evidence on the manifestations of ageism and age discrimination, drawing from an ecological framework emphasizing the importance of structural systems, and then focuses on ageism in the family. A clinical case example illustrates this process and is analyzed through the lens of critical consciousness theory. The paper concludes with the implications for research, theory development and clinical practice.