The Psychology of Hostile Elders: Aging, and the Decline of Social Grace
Why do so many older adults seem angrier, more impatient, and less socially graceful than previous generations? What happened to the dignity, composure, and manners that once defined aging?
In this episode, we explore the psychological, cultural, and social factors that have contributed to the rise of hostility among some Baby Boomers and older adults. Through the lens of cognitive science, social psychology, and generational shifts, we’ll break down:
- How cognitive decline impacts emotional regulation and impulse control
- Why the shift from the Greatest Generation’s values to Baby Boomer individualism changed social behavior
- The role of media influence, political polarization, and outrage culture in shaping attitudes
- How loneliness and social isolation contribute to frustration and entitlement
- What the future holds— will Generation X reclaim dignity in aging, or are these trends here to stay?
This discussion was inspired by a thought-provoking question from one of my students:
"Why did my grandfather and his friends carry themselves with dignity, yet today, many older adults seem rude, entitled, and hostile? What changed?"
Join me as we unpack this complex issue and ask an even bigger question: Is dignity in aging something we can reclaim, or has our social contract permanently shifted?
#Psychology #Aging #Generations #SocialBehavior #Gerontology #BabyBoomers #EmotionalRegulation #MediaInfluence #HumanBehavior #CognitiveDecline #GenerationalDifferences #SocialChange #OutrageCulture #Elderly #SocialPsychology
