Final answer:
The conflict in 'The Aged Mother' relates to the difficulties faced by the elderly due to societal shifts and changing family dynamics, with some theories suggesting transcendence over these conflicts as people age.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conflict within the topic 'The Aged Mother' pertains to the societal and familial challenges faced by the elderly as they age. Modernization theory, one of three classic theories of aging from a conflict perspective, suggests that the loss of power and influence by the elderly in society is primarily because of the shifts from agrarian to industrial economies. This transition led to younger generations moving away from home, leaving the elderly isolated and often viewed as burdensome.
In literature, such as 'Revolt of Mother', this conflict is illustrated through characters rebelling against societal norms that undervalue the role of mothers and the elderly, highlighting the symbolic struggle against neglect and loss of agency.
Tornstam's theory of gerotranscendence from a symbolic interactionist perspective offers a contrasting view, suggesting that the elderly transcend societal conflict and develop a peaceful connection to the natural world, letting go of conflicts from earlier life stages.
The conflict in the story 'The Aged Mother' relates to the central theme of aging and the challenges faced by the elderly. In the story, the aged mother is left alone and abandoned by her children and grandchildren, who no longer care for her. This conflict symbolizes society's neglect and disregard for the elderly, highlighting the need for compassion and respect for older people.