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Procedural and methodological parameters in behavioral-gerontological research: a review.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1986
Summary
This review of pre-1984 behavioral gerontology research found significant methodological flaws. Studies often focused on institutionalized elders, promoting passivity, and lacked rigorous assessment and long-term follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Behavioral Science
- Psychological Research
Background:
- Behavioral-gerontological research published before 1984 was analyzed.
- A total of 151 studies were identified and categorized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine variations in behavioral procedures and scientific research methods.
- To identify and address serious problems within the existing body of research.
Main Methods:
- Classification of 151 studies into observation, assessment, and intervention categories.
- Examination of behavioral procedures and data collection/analysis methods for each study.
Main Results:
- Much research focused on institutionalized elderly, perpetuating passive roles.
- Fewer than 20% of studies were observational or assessment-based, and most were flawed.
- Intervention studies were short, lacked treatment variation, and omitted crucial assessments (e.g., generalization, follow-up).
Conclusions:
- Significant methodological weaknesses were identified in behavioral-gerontological research prior to 1984.
- Future research requires improved methodology, focus on active participant roles, and comprehensive assessment strategies.
- The findings have implications for designing more robust psychological studies with elderly populations.