The relationship between age-stereotypes and health locus of control across adult age-groups

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study integrates healthy ageing and health psychology theories to explore the mechanisms underlying the relationship between health control expectancies and age-attitudes on the process of ageing well. Specifically, the aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between age-stereotypes and health locus of control. DESIGN: A population-based survey of 739 adults aged 20 to 97 years (mean=57.3 years, SD=13.66; 42% female) explored attitudes towards ageing and health attitudes. A path-analytical approach was used to investigate moderating effects of age and gender. RESULTS: Higher age-stereotype endorsement was associated with higher chance (β=2.91, p<.001) and powerful other (β=1.07, p=.012) health expectancies, after controlling for age, gender, education and self-rated health. Significant age and gender interactions were found to influence the relationship between age-stereotypes and internal health locus of control. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the relationship between age-stereotypes and health locus of control dimensions must be considered within the context of age and gender. The findings point to the importance of targeting health promotion and interventions through addressing negative age-attitudes.