When Age Stereotypes are Employment Barriers: a Conceptual Analysis and a Literature Review on Older Workers Stereotypes

Abstract

Literature has shown that age stereotypes are contextual barriers for workers’ occupational wellbeing. The current paper provides a conceptual analysis and a systematic review of research literature on age stereotypes toward older workers and it highlights how age stereotypes represent possible employment barriers into the ongoing aging workforce. Using a systematic review methodology, 18 publications were identified (published in English language since 2000 to 2014 in relevant peer-reviewed journals). The main findings of selected empirical studies indicated that: a) there is the need to focus HR management policies on older workers; b) age stereotypes toward older workers are multidimensional and there is the simultaneous existence of both positive and negative stereotypical beliefs; c) managers’ age stereotypes can affect several organizational outcomes. Self-categorization theory and intergroup bias are recommended as promising theoretical approaches for studying age stereotypes toward older workers and their cognitive identification with the age group.