WHEN AGE IS NOT JUST A NUMBER: FACTORS AFFECTING AGEISM AMONGST YOUTHS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

With the global population ageing rapidly, expanding the present understanding of factors affecting ageism is a pressing research topic. Present understanding of ageism manifestation had mostly been derived from Western studies and samples. Scholars have acknowledged the limitations of this asymmetrical cultural consideration in ageism studies and an increasing number of studies are investigating cross-cultural differences in ageism. Of which, a prominent differentiator is hypothesized to be filial piety. This study aims to contribute to the growing understanding of cross-cultural differences in ageism through the study of the relationship between filial piety and ageism. The study too examines the relationship ageism has with knowledge about ageing and ageing anxiety, as theorized and supported by findings from previous studies, in a non-Western context. In doing so, the study aims to evaluate the applicability of these established theories and determinants across cultures. The study was conducted with 199 participants who provided data via an online survey. From the data collected, it was found that as hypothesized, filial piety is associated with ageism and participants who value filial piety more demonstrated lower levels of ageism. An inverse association between knowledge about ageing and ageism was also found. However, contrary to findings from previous studies, no support was found for the association between ageing anxiety and ageism. An inverse association between socio-economic status and ageism was also found.