Building on Intergenerational Climate to Counter Ageism in the Workplace? A Cross-Organizational Study

ABSTRACT

The negative outcomes of ageism in the workplace have been well documented. In this study, we turn to potential factors that may counter such outcomes. Relying on the Intergroup Contact Theory (ICT), it is hypothesized that a positive intergenerational workplace climate as well as knowledge sharing and donating practices contribute to lower levels of perceived ageism from the perspective of the older worker. In turn and in continuity with previous studies, it is hypothesized that perceived workplace ageism is negatively linked to feelings of satisfaction and successful aging at work. A total of 415 Canadian older workers filled a questionnaire measuring concepts under study. The results suggest that a healthy intergenerational workplace climate exerts a significant and positive impact on perceived ageism in the workplace; in turn and as predicted, ageism significantly lowers feelings of satisfaction at work. Moreover, the importance of a healthy intergenerational workplace climate is demonstrated through a direct link with older workers’ level of satisfaction. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Ageism
• older workers
• intergenerational workplace climate
• satisfaction at work
• Intergroup Contact Theory

Notes

1. The initial sample consisted of 471 participants of which 56 cases with withdrawn as explained in the data analysis section.

2. King and Bryant are using the concepts of age (groups) and generation interchangeably.

3. Reverse item.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by funds from the Association Québécoise de Gérontologie