Patricia Kahlbaugh, a professor of psychology at Southern Connecticut State University, is featured in a new article published by The Guardian examining how modern longevity culture and anti-aging messaging may contribute to internalized ageism.
The feature, titled ”‘Anti-ageing is anti-life’: why longevity culture is just ageism in a lab coat,” explores the growing societal emphasis on preserving youth and the psychological effects of age-related stereotypes.
Kahlbaugh discusses findings from her research on how exposure to ageist content on social media can influence attitudes toward aging across generations. Her work suggests that individuals with greater anxiety about aging—particularly concerns about physical appearance and social status—may be more likely to view their “best self” as existing in the past after encountering ageist messaging online.
“Unlike prior older generations, who viewed retirement, leisure and relaxation as a reward for a lifetime of hard work, they don’t see old age as a time of inactivity. Instead, they want to remain active and able to work and play hard well into their 80s and 90s,” said Kahlbaugh.
The article also highlights Kahlbaugh’s observations that older generations are increasingly focused on concepts such as longevity and “healthspan,” reflecting changing cultural attitudes toward aging.
The feature includes insights from researchers across psychology, anthropology, and gerontology, examining how scientific advances, beauty standards, and social media have shaped public perceptions of aging.
Read the full story in The Guardian: ‘Anti-ageing is anti-life’: why longevity culture is just ageism in a lab coat
