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Ageism in Belgium and Burundi: a comparative analysis
Manon Marquet1, Pierre Missotten1, Sarah Schroyen1
1Psychology of Aging Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
Clinical Interventions in Aging
|September 8, 2016
Summary
Negative perceptions of older adults are higher in less developed countries due to fewer social and economic resources. This study compared attitudes in Belgium and Burundi, finding lower ageism in developed nations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cross-cultural Psychology
- Sociology of Aging
Background:
- Cross-cultural studies suggest ageism stems from resource scarcity for older adults, not inherent cultural factors.
- This research investigates the role of national development levels in shaping attitudes toward the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that lower national development, characterized by fewer social and economic resources, correlates with increased ageism.
- To compare attitudes toward older adults in a developed country (Belgium) versus a least developed country (Burundi).
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with participants from Belgium and Burundi (N=88).
- Attitudes toward older adults were assessed using self-reported measures.
- Participants included Belgians in Belgium, Burundians in Belgium, and Burundians in Burundi.
Main Results:
- Older adults were perceived more negatively by Burundians residing in Burundi compared to those in Belgium.
- Attitudes of Belgians in Belgium and Burundians in Belgium did not significantly differ.
- Findings indicate a correlation between national development and negative perceptions of the elderly.
Conclusions:
- The level of a country's development, particularly government spending on social welfare systems for older adults (pensions, healthcare), may significantly influence intergenerational attitudes.
- Results support the hypothesis that resource availability for older populations is a key factor in reducing ageism across cultures.
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