Age and identity

Life course

The changes which individuals experience as they age

Life cycle

Different stages of life which is seen as normal for people to go through

What did green say about life course

The life course is shaped by society not only biology, for example childhood, adulthood are influenced by societal norms.

What are the 5 stages of life? (Bradley)

• Childhood

• Youth

• Young adulthood

• Middle age

• Old age

What did Aries say about childhood?

Childhood has changed significantly, in the 16 century children were considered “mini adults” , there was no clear distinction between childhood and adulthood.

What did postman say about childhood?

Due to the rise of mass media, children have been exposed to adult information, once again blurring the lines between childhood and adulthood.

Should 16 year olds be able to vote?

Pincher argues that if teens can work and pay taxes they should have a political say and be able to vote.

What emerged after the 1950’s?

Various subcultures with distinctive styles, values and behaviours.

What did these subcultures allow?

They were ways for young people to express identity and challenge societal norms.

What did subcultures reflect?

Broader shifts in society, such as the rise in consumerism, civil rights movements and counter cultural ideas.

Examples of “spectacular subcultures”

• Mods and punks

• The teddy boys

• Hippies

• Punks

What did Pilcher say about young adulthood?

A distinctive life stage, marked by transitions like leaving home, starting work and relationships.

She stated that it is socially constructed, varying from person to person.

What did Jone’s and Wallace say about young adulthood?

Is called “emerging adulthood” where individuals experience uncertainty and transition.

How does the media present ageing?

Advertising reinforces the view that looking youthful is central to looking good and ageing should be avoided at all costs.

How does the media advertise anti ageing?

Adverts to anti ageing creams, hair dyes and cosmetic surgery is common on television and women’s magazines.

What did Sontag say about ageing in media?

Suggest that there is a double standard on ageing according to television where women are required to look youthful but men are not.

What did Milner find about older people in media?

Older people are largely portrayed negatively and stereotypically but in adverts are presented as “super seniors”