Examining Public Awareness of Ageist Terms on Twitter: Content Analysis
2024
Examining Public Awareness of Ageist Terms on Twitter
Sample size: 60320000
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Kristine Mulhorn
Primary Institution: Drexel University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to understand the prevalence and situated use of ageist terms on Twitter.
Conclusion
The study found a continued lack of understanding of appropriate terms to use when referring to older adults on Twitter.
Supporting Evidence
- There were a total of 58,930 tweets containing the ageist terms 'old people' or 'elderly.'
- The term 'older adult' was found in 11,328 tweets.
- 28% of tweets using ageist terms criticized ageist messages.
- 73% of highly hostile ageist content came from tweets using 'old people.'
- 43% of highly hostile ageist content came from tweets using 'elderly.'
Takeaway
People on Twitter often use hurtful words to talk about older adults, and many don't know the right words to use instead.
Methodology
A mixed methods study comprising a content analysis and a descriptive quantitative analysis of tweets.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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