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CHAPTER 1. THE FIELD OF SOCIAL GERONTOLOGY • Chapter Outline • Class Discussion Topics • Student Project and Research Suggestions • Answer Guidelines for “Thinking About Aging†Questions • Lecture/Class Activity Ideas • Community, State, and National Resources • Internet Resources and Activities • Suggested Readings • Films and Videos CHAPTER OUTLINE I. The Field of Social Gerontology a. Defining the Terms 1. Gerontology is the scientific study of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging. 2. Social gerontology is a subfield of gerontology and is concerned mainly with the social, as opposed to the physical or biological, aspects of aging. It draws on research from all social sciences. The research generated by social gerontologists is used in the applied disciplines of social work, public administration, urban and regional planning, and others. b. Successful Aging Several factors are associated with successful aging. Successful Aging can be achieved by setting goals, working to achieve these goals, and participating in meaningful activities. Successful aging involves both the individual and society. II. Conceptual Issues in Research on Aging a. Defining Old Age-Old age fined using chronological age, social roles, functional age and subjective age. 1. Chronological age: Commonly used marker of old age. 2. Social Roles and Age: Defines people as old according to social roles. Social roles are expectations or guidelines for people who occupy given positions, such as widow, grandfather, or retiree. 3. Functional Age: Based on how people l
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