"But He's So Old": An Investigation into Factors that Influence Ageist Attitudes among College Students

"But He's So Old": An Investigation into Factors that Influence Ageist Attitudes among College Students

Jerry Falwell Library, Lower Esbenshade Atrium

The purpose of this study is to investigate ageism. We have researched the potential correlation between ageist attitudes and behaviors with certain independent variables. These variables include: demographics, religiosity, contact with grandparents, relationship with grandparents, attachment style, and empathy. Ageism research is a new and emerging field, and so, the aforementioned variables and their possible connection to ageism is hardly established. Moreover, while some of these factors have been examined individually, a study has yet to combine and compare these variables collectively. Therefore, this study provides a unique contribution to the field of ageism research, uncovering factors which influence the development of ageist attitudes and behaviors.

We chose the method of online, self-report survey for collecting data. The survey was announced via email and through the Liberty University Psychology page. It was administered through the “Psychology activities” section, where participants, at least 18 years of age, took part in the questionnaire. Due to the nature of participant compensation, surveys primarily included students presently enrolled in a psychology course. The results of the study will be analyzed and presented in order to share with the general public about ageism in today’s society.