Presents propositions fundamental to a comprehensive Marxist theory of personality: five premises about the ontological nature of the person and four about underlying expresssive personality characteristics. Differences between the proposed theory and traditional theories are discussed in terms of sociohistorical influence, the nature of…

Presents a model emphasizing the interactions between reorganization of social systems and individual competencies in old age. The model suggests the process by which loss of coping abilities and feelings of worthlessness develop. Implications for effective intervention with the elderly are discussed. (DP)