Do Age-Based Meta-Stereotypes Matter in Intergenerational Relationships?

Our motivation to interact with people from different generations might be influenced by age-based meta-stereotypes: whether we think that those from other age groups view us negatively or positively. In three studies, we investigated the relationship between age-based meta-stereotypes and intergenerational contact in younger (18–30) and older (65+) adults. In Study 1, the valence of meta-stereotypes was significantly related to intergenerational anxiety. Inductive analysis of open-ended questions led to new information about the nature of age-based meta-stereotypes. From Study 2, we found that meta-stereotypes were related to intergenerational contact in older (but not younger) adults, and these relationships were mediated by intergenerational anxiety. Study 3 revealed that the link between younger people’s meta-stereotypes and intergenerational contact was specific to whether family or non-family members were rated. Intergenerational anxiety mediated the link between meta-stereotypes and quality of intergenerational contact. The present study has theoretical, methodological, and practical implications for intergenerational interactions.