Defense Date

6-29-2017

Graduation Date

Summer 1-1-2017

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Counselor Education and Supervision (ExCES)

School

School of Education

Committee Chair

Matthew Bundick

Committee Member

Jocelyn Gregoire

Committee Member

Waganesh Zeleke

Keywords

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

Abstract

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.

Format

PDF

Language

English

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