Exam 36: Aging and Society

A) activity theory
B) family systems theory
C) conflict theory
D) disengagement theory

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

Correct Answer

Answered by ExamLex AI

Disengagement theory is a social theory that suggests that as people age, they naturally withdraw from society and disengage from social roles and relationships. This theory was first proposed by social scientists Elaine Cumming and William Earl Henry in 1961. According to disengagement theory, this withdrawal is a normal and inevitable part of the aging process, and it is beneficial for both the individual and society as a whole. However, there is significant controversy surrounding the implications of disengagement theory. Critics argue that the theory is based on outdated and ageist assumptions about aging, and that it may contribute to the marginalization and neglect of older adults. They argue that the theory fails to account for the wide variation in how individuals experience aging, and that it overlooks the potential for continued social engagement and contribution by older adults. Furthermore, some researchers have found evidence that contradicts the predictions of disengagement theory. Studies have shown that many older adults remain actively engaged in their communities and social networks, and that continued social involvement can have positive effects on physical and mental well-being in later life. In response to these criticisms, alternative theories of aging have been proposed, such as activity theory and continuity theory, which emphasize the importance of maintaining social connections and engagement as people age. These theories suggest that older adults can continue to find meaning and fulfillment through their social roles and relationships, and that society should support and encourage their continued participation. Overall, while disengagement theory has sparked important discussions about aging and society, its implications remain controversial and are subject to ongoing debate and research. It is important to consider the diverse experiences and needs of older adults, and to promote inclusive and supportive environments that enable continued social engagement and contribution in later life.

A) functionalist
B) conflict
C) interactionist
D) feminist

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) functionalist theory of aging,which contends that elderly people who remain active will be best-adjusted.
B) conflict theory of aging,which argues that society and the aging individual mutually sever many of their relationships.
C) functionalist theory of aging,which argues that society and the aging individual mutually sever many of their relationships.
D) theory of the United States' withdrawal from international involvement.

Correct Answer

verified

C

A) membership in the group is involuntary.
B) older U.S.citizens have a strong sense of group solidarity.
C) older people experience unequal treatment in employment and may face prejudice and discrimination.
D) All of these answers are correct.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) Age is a socially constructed ascribed status.
B) Age is considered an achieved status.
C) The status of age is not socially constructed like race or gender.
D) Age is neither an achieved nor an ascribed status.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) functionalist
B) conflict
C) interactionist
D) feminist

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) older people are not the objects of prejudice and discrimination.
B) membership is not involuntary.
C) if we live long enough,we will all become members of this minority.
D) old people do not marry members of their own group.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) functionalist perspective
B) conflict perspective
C) interactionist perspective
D) global perspective

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) functionalist theory of aging,which contends that elderly people who remain active will be best-adjusted.
B) conflict theory of aging,which argues that society and the aging individual mutually sever many of their relationships.
C) functionalist theory of aging,which argues that society and the aging individual mutually sever many of their relationships.
D) interactionist theory of aging,which argues that elderly people who remain active will be best-adjusted.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) they are indistinguishable from the rest of the population.
B) they are unlikely to be married to others of comparable age.
C) membership in the group is involuntary.
D) there is little solidarity among them as a group.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) once people are labeled as "old" in the United States,this designation will have a major impact on how they are perceived and how they view themselves.
B) elderly people are unfairly regulated by the powerful elements in society.
C) elderly people passing social roles on from one generation to another ensure social stability.
D) old people have the same need for social interaction as any other group.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) conflict theory.
B) disengagement theory.
C) activity theory.
D) labeling theory.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) disengagement theory
B) activity theory
C) labeling theory
D) functionalist perspective

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) 50s
B) 60s
C) 70s
D) 80s

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer

A) rule by the elderly.
B) the scientific study of the sociological and psychological aspects of aging and the problems of the aged.
C) a religious cult that worships the aged.
D) a religion formed in Florida that is practiced exclusively by the aged.

Correct Answer

verified

Show Answer