There are three classic theories of aging within the
conflict perspective. Modernization theory (Cowgill and Holmes 1972) suggests
that the primary cause of the elderly losing power and influence in society are
the parallel forces of industrialization and modernization. As societies
modernize, the status of elders decreases, and they are increasingly likely to
experience social exclusion. Before industrialization, strong social norms
bound the younger generation to care for the older. Now, as societies industrialize,
the nuclear family replaces the extended family. Societies become increasingly
individualistic, and norms regarding the care of older people change. In an
individualistic industrial society, caring for an elderly relative is seen as a
voluntary obligation that may be ignored without fear of social censure.
The central reasoning of modernization theory is that as
long as the extended family is the standard family, as in preindustrial
economies, elders will have a place in society and a clearly defined role. As
societies modernize, the elderly, unable to work outside of the home, have less
to offer economically and are seen as a burden. This model may be applied to
both the developed and the developing world, and it suggests that as people age
they will be abandoned and lose much of their familial support since they
become a nonproductive economic burden.
Overview
Modernization theory of aging, also known as the
"social theories of aging," is a perspective that seeks to explain
the experiences and roles of older adults in society based on the broader
societal changes associated with modernization and development. This theory
suggests that as societies undergo modernization and industrialization, the
roles and status of older adults may change, and their experiences of aging may
be influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors.
The modernization theory of aging posits that as societies
transition from traditional agricultural economies to modern industrialized
economies, there are several key changes that affect older adults:
- Shift
from traditional family structures to nuclear families:
As societies modernize, there may
be a shift from extended family structures to nuclear families. This can result
in changes in the roles and responsibilities of older adults within families,
as they may have less reliance on intergenerational support and may be expected
to be more self-sufficient.
- Changes
in work and retirement patterns:
Modernization can also impact work
and retirement patterns. In traditional societies, older adults may continue to
work and contribute to the family and community as long as they are physically
able. However, in modern industrialized societies, there may be greater
emphasis on formal employment, and older adults may be encouraged or required
to retire at a certain age, which can impact their social roles and economic
status.
- Changes
in healthcare and social welfare systems:
Modernization can lead to changes
in healthcare and social welfare systems, which can affect the well-being and
care of older adults. In modern societies, there may be formal healthcare
systems and social welfare programs that provide support to older adults, but
also may result in changes in family caregiving patterns and expectations.
- Changes
in cultural values and attitudes towards aging:
Modernization can also impact
cultural values and attitudes towards aging. In traditional societies, older
adults may be revered and respected for their wisdom and experience. However,
in modern societies, there may be a shift towards valuing youthfulness and
productivity, which can result in changes in the status and roles of older
adults in society.
- Urbanization
and migration:
Modernization can also lead to
urbanization and migration, as people move from rural areas to urban centers in
search of employment and better opportunities. This can result in changes in
the social networks and support systems of older adults, as they may be
separated from their traditional support networks and may face social isolation
and loneliness.
Overall, the modernization theory of aging suggests that
societal changes associated with modernization and development can impact the
experiences, roles, and status of older adults in society. However, it is
important to note that this theory has been criticized for its deterministic
view of aging, as the experiences of older adults are shaped by multiple
factors, including individual characteristics, cultural contexts, and social
structures. Other theories of aging, such as the life course perspective,
social constructionist perspective, and critical gerontology, offer alternative
perspectives on the complex and multifaceted nature of aging in modern
societies. So, it is important to consider multiple perspectives and factors
when understanding the experiences of older adults in modern societies.
Critics and Support
The modernization theory of aging is a perspective that
focuses on the changes and challenges faced by older adults as societies
undergo modernization, technological advancements, and shifts towards more
urbanized and industrialized societies. This theory has both critics and
supporters.
Critics of the modernization theory of aging argue that it
has several limitations:
- Loss
of traditional values and social support: Critics argue that as societies
modernize, there may be a loss of traditional values and social support
systems that were once available to older adults. For example, in
traditional societies, older adults may have had strong social networks,
intergenerational living arrangements, and roles that provided them with
respect and status. However, modernization can lead to changes in social
structures, migration patterns, and economic systems that disrupt these
traditional supports, leading to social isolation, loneliness, and a
diminished role for older adults in society.
- Health
disparities and inequality: Critics argue that modernization can
exacerbate health disparities and inequality among older adults. For
example, as societies modernize, access to healthcare, nutrition, and
sanitation may become unequal, leading to disparities in health outcomes among
older adults. Older adults who are marginalized or live in economically
disadvantaged areas may face increased health risks and reduced access to
healthcare, leading to poorer health outcomes.
- Changing
roles and expectations: Critics argue that modernization can lead to
changing roles and expectations for older adults, which may not align with
their traditional roles and values. For example, as societies modernize,
there may be a shift towards more individualistic values, which can lead
to changes in family structures, intergenerational relationships, and
caregiving responsibilities. Older adults may face challenges in adapting
to these changing roles and expectations, leading to feelings of loss,
confusion, and identity crises.
On the other hand, supporters of the modernization theory of
aging argue that it has several benefits:
- Increased
access to education and resources: Supporters argue that modernization can
provide older adults with increased access to education, information, and
resources, which can contribute to their personal development, cognitive
stimulation, and empowerment. For example, modernization can lead to the
availability of educational opportunities, lifelong learning programs, and
technological advancements that enable older adults to engage in new
activities, pursue hobbies, and stay connected with others.
- Improved
living conditions: Supporters argue that modernization can lead to
improved living conditions for older adults, such as better housing,
sanitation, and healthcare. For example, modernization can lead to
advancements in medical technology, healthcare services, and public health
policies that can improve the health and well-being of older adults,
leading to increased life expectancy and better quality of life.
- Economic
opportunities: Supporters argue that modernization can provide older
adults with increased economic opportunities and financial security. For
example, modernization can lead to changes in labor markets, pension
systems, and social welfare programs that provide older adults with more
options for employment, retirement planning, and social support.
In conclusion, the modernization theory of aging has both
critics and supporters. Critics argue that it can lead to loss of traditional
values, social support, and exacerbate health disparities and inequality, while
supporters argue that it can provide older adults with increased access to
education, resources, improved living conditions, and economic opportunities.
It's important to critically evaluate the modernization theory of aging and
consider its implications in different societal contexts. Policies and
interventions should be designed to maximize the benefits of modernization
while addressing its potential challenges for older adults. Overall, a
comprehensive and holistic approach that considers the diverse needs and
experiences of older adults in modernizing societies is necessary. As societies
continue to evolve and modernize, understanding and addressing the implications
of these changes on aging populations will be essential for promoting healthy
and positive aging experiences. It's important to involve older adults
themselves in the development of
Sources and Additional Information:
https://guides.hostos.cuny.edu/Psychology_of_Aging/theories1
