The concept of Goffman stigma applied to old age

Abstract

Studying old age is pertinent due to population aging and the resulting socioeconomic impacts;training of professionals working with the elderly; distance between accumulated knowledge and their practical application to old age; view of old age as intellectual, psychological, emotional and physical decay, without regard to the gains from experience and resilience. The objective is to reflect on the situation of the elderly, making a parallel between old age and Goffman’s propositions. It seeks to question the understanding that old age is bad because it brings losses, learning difficulties, physical and mental decline, the advent of diseases, restriction of socio-political participation and experience of pleasure. The creation and perpetuation of stigma occur in social relations, with the influence of historical-cultural components in this process, which allows for variability of perception, stigmatizing practices and dehumanization. Reflecting on the issue of the elderly is necessary to deconstruct prejudices, alter the pejorative and partial view that marginalizes them and favor their recognition as an individual capable of learning and socio-political participation.

Keywords

• velhice
• estigma
• goffman