Final answer:
The structural-functional approach to aging includes disengagement theory, suggesting withdrawal from society is natural for the elderly, and activity theory, encouraging continued social involvement. Social inequality is not part of this approach but relates more to conflict theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The structural-functional approach to aging includes theories that analyze society's structure and function, particularly concerning how aging individuals interact with and serve the society as they grow older. Among these theories are:
- Disengagement theory posits that it is natural for the elderly to withdraw from social interactions and societal roles, following expected physical and mental decline associated with aging.
- Activity theory counters the disengagement theory, suggesting that maintaining activities and social involvement is essential for elder's satisfaction and happiness in later life.
- Social inequality is not a direct part of the structural-functional approach to aging but is instead related to conflict theory in sociology, which examines the ways in which society's systems and institutions favor some groups over others.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question would be a) disengagement theory and b) activity theory, excluding c) social inequality from the structural-functional perspective on aging.