Transcending the Reification of “Old Women's” Bodies: Some Sociological Theorists' Views∗

Stereotypical images of older women's bodies are often produced within the field of gerontology. Sociological theorists' views offer an explanation as to the role that society and groups play in creating these negative images. Works by theorists such as Marx and Engels, De Beauvoir, Goffman, Bourdieu, Foucault, and Butler offer varied explanations as to how society creates these images and the functions these images hold in society. By reviewing the meaning of these socially constructed images, more is revealed about society's attitudes towards aging and gender rather than individual characteristics of older women. As gerontologists we must uncover the way negative stereotypes are created and consider how we can change them to improve the way older women's bodies are viewed in society.