Final answer:
Age-related stereotypes are neither entirely positive nor do they exclude physical appearance. People have developed subtypes of older adults, indicating greater recognition of their diverse experiences and capacities. The provided information indicates that age-related stereotypes tend to be negative and are not critically examined by society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Age-related stereotypes often present a skewed view of aging and the elderly. Based on the information provided, it's clear that age-related stereotypes are neither entirely positive nor is physical appearance excluded from these stereotypes.
In fact, many stereotypes of older adults tend to be negative, portraying them as dependent, frail, or out-of-touch, and physical appearance can play a significant role in how these stereotypes are formed and perpetuated. Moreover, people have indeed developed subtypes of older adults, recognizing diversity in the elderly population's experiences and capacities.
Several studies, such as those by Cuddy, Norton, & Fiske (2005) and Nelson (2004), show the pervasiveness and persistence of age-related stereotypes. These stereotypes are often uncritically accepted by society, despite being overgeneralizations that ignore individual variance.
These generalized views can influence how society perceives and interacts with older adults, leading to prejudices and discrimination.
Therefore, the true answer to the student's question is that neither option 'a' nor 'b' is correct. Age-related stereotypes are not primarily positive, and physical appearance is indeed a part of the stereotype.
Additionally, people have developed subtypes of older adults, which indicates a more nuanced understanding than a single, homogenous stereotype might suggest.