An Investigation of Geriatric Microaggressions, Relations with Depression in Later Life, and the Moderating Effect of Coping

<p>This quantitative study examined the relationships between experiences of geriatric microaggressions, mental health, coping, and demographic characteristics. Geriatric microaggressions are subtle forms of discrimination experienced by the older adult population based upon negative societal perceptions of aging. Previous research has found relations among other forms of microaggressions, such as racial and sexual orientation, and mental health and coping; however, age related microaggressions remain relatively unexplored. The present sample consisted of 163 adults, age 60 and older, who were recruited primarily from the Western Pennsylvania area. The results revealed significant demographic differences in regard to the experiences of geriatric microaggressions. The results also supported significant relationships between coping style, symptoms of depression, and experiences of geriatric microaggressions. These findings imply that experiences of geriatric microaggressions exist within our society and can potentially have meaningful consequences for older adults. Implications for counseling practice and education and recommendations for future research are presented.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

PhD

Level thesis:degree_level

Immediate Access

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Counselor Education and Supervision (ExCES)

Year dc:date.available

2017

Author dc:creator

• Zimmerman, Lisa

Contributors dc:contributor

• Matthew Bundick
• Jocelyn Gregoire
• Waganesh Zeleke

• Ageism; Coping; Depression; Discrimination; Microaggression; Older Adult

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://dsc.duq.edu/etd/191

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dsc.duq.edu:etd-1200