Psychological or behavioral theories
Create a chart to examine the different aging theories in which you:
Identify six theories of aging:
2 biological or physiological
2 sociological
2 psychological or behavioral theories
Explain each theory in 50 words and describe their major components.
Part 2
Write 175- to 350-word responses to the following questions:
Which theory do you think is most widely used?
Which theory do you most closely agree as it relates to aging adults?
How would you use this theory in your work environment?
Sample Solution
| Theory | Type | Description | Major Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genetic Theory | Biological | Aging is programmed into our genes. | Genes that control cell division and repair are gradually damaged over time, leading to the decline of bodily functions. |
| Free Radical Theory | Biological | Aging is caused by the accumulation of free radicals in the body. | Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA. |
| Disengagement Theory | Sociological | Aging is a natural process of withdrawal from society. | Older adults gradually withdraw from social roles and activities, and focus on their inner lives. |
| Activity Theory | Sociological | Aging is a time of continued activity and engagement. | Older adults can maintain their social roles and activities by adapting to changes in their physical and cognitive abilities. |
| Continuity Theory | Psychological | Aging is a process of continuity in which individuals maintain their personality and lifestyle throughout their lives. | Older adults tend to retain their interests, values, and personality traits as they age. |
| Life Review Theory | Psychological | Aging is a time of reflection on one's life. | Older adults review their lives, resolve past conflicts, and come to terms with their mortality. |
Full Answer Section
Explanation of Each Theory- Genetic Theory: This theory states that aging is programmed into our genes. As we age, our genes gradually become damaged, leading to the decline of bodily functions. This theory is supported by the fact that identical twins tend to age at the same rate, even if they live in different environments.
- Free Radical Theory: This theory states that aging is caused by the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA. As we age, our bodies produce more free radicals, and our ability to repair them declines. This theory is supported by the fact that antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from free radical damage, have been shown to extend lifespan in animals.
- Disengagement Theory: This theory states that aging is a natural process of withdrawal from society. As we age, we gradually withdraw from social roles and activities, and focus on our inner lives. This theory is supported by the fact that older adults tend to have fewer social contacts and engage in fewer activities than younger adults.
- Activity Theory: This theory states that aging is a time of continued activity and engagement. Older adults can maintain their social roles and activities by adapting to changes in their physical and cognitive abilities. This theory is supported by the fact that older adults who remain active tend to be healthier and happier than those who withdraw from society.
- Continuity Theory: This theory states that aging is a process of continuity in which individuals maintain their personality and lifestyle throughout their lives. Older adults tend to retain their interests, values, and personality traits as they age. This theory is supported by the fact that older adults often describe themselves as being the same person they were when they were younger.
- Life Review Theory: This theory states that aging is a time of reflection on one's life. Older adults review their lives, resolve past conflicts, and come to terms with their mortality. This theory is supported by the fact that many older adults engage in reminiscence therapy, which involves talking about their past lives.