Chapter Questions
How would you describe the difference between age norms and age roles?
Which of the early theories of aging lacks empirical evidence to support it?
What theory suggests that as we age, we tend to become more of who we already were?
Which of the theories has probably influenced the view that older adults should keep "busy" in retirement?
Cohort is a central concept to two of the theories described in this chapter. What are those theories?
Describe ways that the life course perspective differs from a focus on individual life span development.
What theories would you draw upon to explain the fact that African American women over age 75 are the poorest group in our society?
Which theories posit that individuals construct their own meanings of "reality"?