An Examination of Generational Stereotypes as a Path Towards Reverse Ageism

Abstract

This article develops and tests an argument about the origins and consequences of reverse ageism. Specifically, we argue that the hype about generational differences gives credence to reverse-ageist ideologies, and we test the notion that such ideologies engender reverse-ageist discriminatory behaviors directed at young nonprofit professionals. We surveyed 282 Millennials, Xers, and Boomers employed in the nonprofit and human services sector. Participants completed a Generational Stereotypes Index, rated the work skills of young professionals, and shared examples of reverse age discrimination. Compared with Millennials, members of prior generations (Boomers and Xers) view “the typical young professional” more stereotypically. Moreover, these stereotypical perceptions of young professionals predict older employees’ beliefs that young professionals lack general work skills. Qualitative analyses show that a majority of older employees (over 60% in our sample) describe their young colleagues negatively, and that young employees (close to 30% in our sample) experience reverse age discrimination. These results illustrate how the seemingly benign conversation about generational differences escalates into a serious issue—reverse age discrimination experienced by today’s young employees, the Millennials.