Language, play and work among elderly persons

Abstract

The general purpose of the study was to ascertain the meanings of play and work among elderly subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned either play or work as stimulus words and asked to write down other words they associated with the stimulus word during a one-minute trial. Results suggested that play and work were different ideas for the group of elderly subjects. Play was best defined as an enjoyable, voluntary activity often associated with a younger period in the life cycle by the subjects. Work was best defined as a required activity that few seemed to enjoy. Work was also characterized as demanding and associated with an occupational role, extrinsically motivated, and producing a considerable awareness of time. Gender difference in the meanings of play were not remarkable. Men were somewhat more likely to define play as a formal sport and outdoor related activity. Women's definitions were best distinguished by a preference for culturally oriented responses.