Understanding ageism in the workplace (Research Summary)
Schmitz, S. Esteves, C.S. Vauclair, C.M. Rosa, M.
Schmitz, S.
Esteves, C.S.
Vauclair, C.M.
Rosa, M.
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2024
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Abstract
An aging population has widereaching social, political and economic implications for societies. Changes in the workforce age composition can create social tensions, perceptions of threat and challenging workplace dynamics, especially between younger and older workers. It is crucial to better understand how younger and older workers see each other, and how this affects how they interact. Although the social psychological literature has provided important insights into ageist perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors, the lion’s share of research has focused on how older people are perceived. However, age biases can be directed at both younger and older adults/workers. This research summary presents key findings of a three-year research project on bidirectional ageism in Portugal, supported by the Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos. Data were collected from different samples, including a 1,000-person representative sample of the Portuguese population. Over 20 surveys were conducted, and an experiment was run to rigorously show effects of ageism on workplace outcomes. A variety of qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to analyse the data. A thorough review of relevant literature was conducted, and experts within and outside of Portugal were consulted along the way. Recommendations are provided for addressing ageism against both younger and older workers.
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Keywords
Ageism, Youngism, Older Workers, Younger Workers, Stereotypes