Breaking prescriptive stereotypes or facing backlash?

: ageism and the impact of technology use by older workers in the modern workplace

Abstract

Age-related prescriptive stereotypes in the workplace often shape expectations about older workers’ abilities, particularly concerning technology. When individuals violate these stereotypes, they may face negative social and economic consequences for deviating from societal norms, also referred to as backlash (Rudman, 1988). This dissertation explored how older workers who violate technology-based age stereotypes are perceived by people of different ages. Factors influencing these perceptions, and the role of benevolent and hostile ageism in this relationship were examined. Through a factorial vignette experiment (n = 169), participants evaluated profiles depicting either middle-aged or older workers, female or male workers, and workers who adhere to or violate technology-based age stereotypes. The findings revealed that older workers perceived as less technologically adept (thus adhering to stereotypes) were rated higher in warmth and likability, whereas middle-aged workers showed the opposite trend. Both groups, however, were perceived as more competent and respected when they behaved counter-stereotypically by demonstrating technological proficiency. Contrary to expectations, hostile ageism, participant age, and the gender of the evaluated individual did not significantly influence perceptions but were instead linked to different emotional responses such as irritation and annoyance. This study partially supports existing literature while offering new insights into the relationship between age stereotype violations and perceptions of older workers. It also underscores the need for further research on the factors shaping perceptions of counter-stereotypical behavior in older individuals. Practical recommendations are provided to help mitigate the potential negative consequences for older workers displaying high levels of technological competence and adaptability in the workplace.

Date of Award	16 Dec 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Cristina Maria Lopes Camilo (Supervisor)