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Exploring perceptions of curiosity in older age: A mixed methods approach
Michelle E Hirsch1, Tarnpreet Virk1, Christina Chang1
1Department of Psychology, York University.
Psychology and Aging
|July 9, 2026
Summary
Younger adults expect curiosity to decline with age, while older adults perceive it as increasing. This study reveals differing age-related perceptions of curiosity across its various dimensions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Curiosity is vital for healthy aging, but its age-related trajectory is debated.
- Existing research presents conflicting findings on whether curiosity increases or decreases with age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how younger and older adults perceive changes in curiosity across the lifespan.
- To examine age differences in perceptions of curiosity across six distinct dimensions.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative analysis of open-ended responses and quantitative analysis of questionnaire data.
- Participants (75 younger, 80 older adults) rated their own curiosity and their perceptions of older adults' curiosity.
- Perceptions of curiosity changes with age were assessed generally and across six specific curiosity dimensions.
Main Results:
- Older adults reported higher joyous exploration and stress tolerance than younger adults.
- Younger adults showed higher social curiosity, thrill-seeking, and intrapersonal curiosity.
- Both age groups rated their own curiosity higher than they rated older adults' curiosity, and younger adults predicted a decline in curiosity, whereas older adults predicted an increase.
Conclusions:
- Contrary to some literature, age differences in curiosity are not uniform across all dimensions.
- Perceptions of how curiosity evolves with age diverge significantly between younger and older individuals.
- Understanding these differing perceptions is crucial for a nuanced view of curiosity in aging.
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