Questions and Answers
Which specific theory describes the idea that elderly people lose social standing and power as time and technology move forward?
Modernization theory
Supercentenarians are people who are ___ and older.
110
What is a dependency ratio?
It is the comparison of working people to non-working people.
What is the basic idea behind disengagement theory?
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When elderly people are considered elders and leaders of a group, they are functioning under a(n):
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What does the phrase 'the graying of the United States' mean?
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According to Erik Erikson's theory on aging, what is the final hurdle that most people who reach old age must overcome?
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Accusing people of DWE (driving while elderly) is considered a type of:
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Elizabeth Kübler-Ross's book 'On Death and Dying' contributed to which field?
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Which three states allow some form of physician-assisted suicide?
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Study Notes
Modernization and Aging
- Conflict theorists argue that technological progress leads to the marginalization of elderly individuals, who lose social status and power.
- This phenomenon is explained by Modernization Theory, which examines the relationship between societal advancement and the elderly's diminished role.
Supercentenarians
- Supercentenarians are defined as individuals who are 110 years old or older, emphasizing a rare demographic of extreme longevity.
Dependency Ratio
- The dependency ratio measures the proportion of working individuals to non-working individuals within a population, indicating economic and social support dynamics.
Disengagement Theory
- Disengagement Theory posits that as individuals age, they naturally withdraw from societal roles and interactions, which affects their social integration.
Gerontocracy
- A gerontocracy is a social structure where elder individuals are revered and hold leadership positions within communities, signifying respect for their wisdom and experience.
The Graying of the United States
- The term "the graying of the United States" refers to a demographic shift where a significant proportion of the population is aging into retirement, notably reaching the age of 65.
Erikson's Theory on Aging
- Erik Erikson identifies 'despair' as the crucial challenge encountered by individuals in old age, representing a reflective life evaluation and acceptance.
Ageism
- Ageism manifests in negative perceptions and stereotypes about the elderly, exemplified by the derogatory term "DWE" (driving while elderly), reflecting bias against older individuals.
Thanatology
- Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s influential work, "On Death and Dying," has significantly contributed to thanatology, the study of death and the practices associated with it.
Physician-Assisted Suicide
- Only a few states in the U.S., including Washington, Oregon, and Montana, permit some form of physician-assisted suicide, highlighting ongoing ethical and legal discussions regarding end-of-life choices.
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Description
Test your knowledge on key concepts from Sociology Chapter 13, focusing on theories such as modernization theory and demographic statistics like dependency ratios. This quiz will challenge your understanding of societal changes and the aging population. Perfect for students studying sociology or preparing for exams.
