Why is aging considered a social construct? How has your culture affected your view of aging and the elderly?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

- Aging is not only a biological inevitability, but it also can be a social construct. According to Giles et al., people look at the aging process differently, for example, depending on the country
in which they live. They point out that when "young adulthood" begins and ends depends upon the country: For example, in the United States it begins at 17 and ends at 28, while in Bulgaria it begins at 16 and ends at 32. Middle age in the United States begins at 33 and ends at 59, while in Mongolia it begins at 29 and ends at 45. Elderly age begins in the United States at 61 and in Ghana at 50.
- In Western societies, it is common to hold negative attitudes about people perceived as old. This seemingly unfavorable perception often translates for some into stereotypes that can be harmful because they shape our expectations of aging as well as how younger people behave and treat older people. For example, some stereotypes imply older people are less competent, slow-thinking, hopeless, naïve, selfish, lonely, depressed, and so on. These stereotypes can potentially affect older people's self-concepts and ultimately how they communicate and see themselves.
- Student examples will vary but must reflect a view of aging supported by cultural detail.