Question

Gender roles tend to be least rigid in old age. This is reflective of which of the following aspects of disengagement theory?

a) Increased social isolation
b) Reduced social expectations
c) Shifting priorities in old age
d) Rejection of societal norms

Answer 1

The disengagement theory suggests that withdrawing from society and social relationships is a natural part of growing old. As individuals age, their shifting priorities in old age lead to less rigid gender roles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The disengagement theory suggests that withdrawing from society and social relationships is a natural part of growing old. According to the theory, as individuals approach death and experience physical and mental decline, it is natural for them to withdraw from social interactions. As a result of this withdrawal, older adults receive less reinforcement to conform to social norms, leading to a greater freedom from societal expectations.

In the context of gender roles in old age, the least rigid gender roles reflect the shifting priorities in old age that are associated with the disengagement theory. As men and women age, their traditional roles in society, such as work and family responsibilities, may become less relevant. This allows them to adopt new roles that align with their individual desires and interests, leading to more flexibility in gender roles.