Elderly adults (N=72) were presented a concept problem which varied as a function of type of solution shift and stimulus materials. Both trials to criterion and postshift error patterns were analyzed. Results indicated stimulus materials affected postshift performance and the elderly do respond in a dimensional fashion under some circumstances.…

Utilizing a semantic differential measurement technique and a sample of college students (N=123), middle-aged adults (N=90), and elderly adults (N=108), this study investigated devaluation of old age in comparison to age in general. All age groups devalued old age. The most consistent predictor of devaluation was negative attitudes toward poor…

Young (N=18) and older (N=18) adults participated in a vocabulary task involving varying degrees of risk with a payoff structure that varied either directly or inversely with risk. In contrast to prior research using constant payoff structures, results did not indicate that older adults are more cautious than young adults. (Author)

Widows and widowers, grouped by whether their spouse died of short-term or chronic illness, were compared on three criteria of medical adjustment. (Author/EJT)

Longitudinal data for 58 male subjects were used to examine intensively the process of adaptation to retirement. Evidence of high levels of adaptation in the sample was reflected in the overwhelming stability of morale over time. Multiple regression analysis indicated social resources condition the relationship between adaptation and retirement.…

Free recall lists were presented to young (N=42) and old (N=42) males under three conditions: (a) active auditory; (b) passive auditory; and (c) visual only. The young group recalled more words than the old at each presentation position under each condition. (Author)

Investigates changes in personal satisfaction over the whole life course by means of life graphs and their determinants, administered within a four-year interval to 371 individuals (age 45-70). Events play a different role at different stages of life and seem to be measured against an implicit schedule, traumatic or acceptable. (Author)