How stereotypes and attitudes toward older adults are challenged through intergenerational contact: Young people explain the process

There is a growing body of evidence on the effectiveness of inter-generational contact in challenging stereotypes and attitudes, particularly when applying the four conditions of Allport's contact hypothesis. Despite this, little is known of how change actually occurs, particularly among young people. Individual interviews with twelve young people (age 11-12 years) were conducted to determine the extent and process by which their stereotypes and attitudes toward older adults (aged 65+) changed through intergenerational contact based on the contact hypothesis. Data analysis revealed five themes and 12 subthemes that illustrate this process. The findings support the contact hypothesis, explain how change occurs, and point to the need for further research on the change process.