As people age, their views may shift due to changes in social norms, interactions with diverse peers, and personal experiences.
Some beliefs remain stubbornly entrenched and require more effort to challenge.
Many older adults hold preconceived notions about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals that are based on stereotypes, misinformation, and cultural stigma. These attitudes can lead to discrimination, marginalization, and even violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Several psychological mechanisms help older adults revise their prejudices towards LGBTQ+ individuals. One mechanism is cognitive dissonance, which occurs when an individual's beliefs conflict with their behavior. When confronted with evidence that contradicts these beliefs, they may experience discomfort or guilt, leading them to reconsider their position. This process often involves reflection, self-questioning, and introspection, and can result in a change of heart and mind.
Another mechanism is exposure therapy, whereby individuals gradually confront their fears or phobias by gradually increasing contact with LGBTQ+ individuals.
This can reduce anxiety and increase empathy, leading to greater acceptance and understanding. Exposure therapy has been used successfully to treat various phobias and anxieties, including homophobia and transphobia.
Social learning theory suggests that individuals learn through observation and modeling. By observing positive interactions between LGBTQ+ people and society at large, older adults may start to appreciate the diversity and value of different sexual orientations and gender identities. This can also involve role models, such as famous figures who challenge traditional norms, or personal experiences with LGBTQ+ friends or family members.
Cognitive dissonance theory states that individuals seek consistency between their beliefs and actions. As they age, older adults may reflect on past behaviors and attitudes, acknowledging how they have contributed to discrimination and marginalization. This realization may lead to remorse, regret, and a desire for redemption, which can inspire action to support LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy.
Revising deeply ingrained prejudices towards LGBTQ+ individuals requires sustained effort and commitment from both individuals and society. Psychological mechanisms such as cognitive dissonance, exposure therapy, social learning, and cognitive dissonance play an important role in this process, helping older adults break down barriers and build bridges across differences.
What psychological mechanisms enable older adults to revise deeply ingrained prejudices about LGBT individuals later in life?
The ability of older adults to modify their viewpoints on LGBT individuals can be attributed to several factors such as cognitive flexibility, openness to new experiences, social influence, and intergroup contact. Cognitive flexibility involves being able to shift one's thinking from existing beliefs and preconceived notions to consider alternative perspectives.