Question

What changes in social relationships typically occur during old age?

a. The number of less close social partners increases.
b. Aging adults in Western cultures become less selective about social partners.
c. Aging adults in Eastern cultures become less selective about social partners.
d. The number of very close social partners remains the same.

Answer 1

In old age, individuals tend to decrease the number of their less close social partners and become more selective, leading to a smaller but emotionally closer social circle. This pattern is consistent across Western and Eastern cultures, emphasizing the increased importance of close relationships in positive aging.

Step-by-step explanation:

During old age, social relationships typically undergo significant changes. One aspect of positive aging is maintaining social connectedness, which is crucial for emotional well-being. Research, such as socioemotional selectivity theory, suggests that the number of social contacts tends to decrease, but the depth of the remaining relationships often increases. Adults become more selective with their social partners, focusing more on meaningful and emotionally satisfying relationships. This selectivity serves to enhance the emotional quality of life in old age.

Due to these changes, the correct answer to the question is that the number of less close social partners decreases, and the number of very close social partners remains consistent or could even become closer. Aging adults in both Western and Eastern cultures exhibit a trend towards greater selectivity in their social relationships, contrary to options suggesting a decrease in selectivity. Thus, we see an increase in emotionally meaningful connections while the wider social circle becomes smaller.

It is also important to note that in the context of modernization and industrialization, social roles and the status of the elderly can change, leading to different societal expectations and potentially increased social exclusion for some. Still, the essence of personal social relationships in old age remains centered around deep, close connections rather than numerous superficial ones.

Answer 2

In old age, individuals often become more selective about their social contacts, leading to a decline in the number of less close relationships but maintenance or deepening of close social partnerships. This selectivity is consistent across Western cultures and is a result of a greater emphasis on emotionally fulfilling interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Social Relationships in Old Age

During old age, social relationships often undergo significant changes. One aspect of positive aging is social connectedness and social support. According to socioemotional selectivity theory, as adults become older, they tend to become more selective about their social partners. This results in a decrease in the quantity of social contacts but often an increase in the quality of those relationships. The number of less close social partners declines, and older adults prioritize more meaningful, emotionally fulfilling relationships.

In Western societies, aging adults do not become less selective about social partners; in fact, the opposite is true. As one ages, close relationships are preserved and sometimes strengthened, while more peripheral relationships fall away. This phenomenon is less about cultural differences between Eastern and Western societies and more about personal decisions to invest in emotionally gratifying social interactions. Therefore, the number of very close social partners usually remains stable or can even increase in emotional depth.

Additionally, as societies modernize, the status of elders often decreases, leading to potential social exclusion. However, it's important to note that each individual's experience can vary greatly, influenced by factors such as health status, societal norms, and personal choices. Exchange theory suggests an increased dependence with age, which can affect the exchange dynamics within social relationships.