Citation

Benedict A. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1995; 19(4): 49-59.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v19n04_04

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Who is to blame for the chronic illnesses that are increasingly important as we age? Two hundred and three independently- living persons were interviewed, 45 under the age of 55 and 158 over 55, to determine whether they employed blaming or nonblaming attributions concerning chronic illnesses. Being older, having more illnesses, mood (depression), and weight (obesity) all were related to the respondents' attributions. Older persons were significantly more blaming of themselves and other people in relation to illness than were younger people. Reasons for this are suggested: the religious upbringings many older people experienced that paired guilt and suffering, and current emphasis on a healthy life style as a way to avoid the chronic problems the older person already has. Since blaming (internal) attributions lead to higher levels of depression and declines in physical health for those who adopt them, it is suggested that professionals working with elderly persons examine their own atlributions in regard to chronic illness, and face whatever ambivalent attitudes they may have. Hopefully, this will lead to their modeling positive explanatory styles for their clients.