The Role of Quality of Face-to-face Intergenerational Contact in Reducing Ageism: The Perspectives of Young People

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the role of face-to-face intergenerational contact in reducing ageism among 467 young Chinese people. The results showed that the quality of face-to-face intergenerational contact contributed significantly to young people’s attitudes toward older people, and that equal intergenerational status and frequent phone communication were positively associated with the perceived quality of their face-to-face contact between older and younger people. Also, attitudes toward older people and phone communication had a significant positive influence on their prosocial behavior toward older people. Strategies to reduce ageism should include policies to strengthening positive intergenerational relationships especially in families with elderly members, and efforts to implementing intergenerational programs that feature an equal intergenerational status.