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41 J. Soc. & Soc. Welfare 143 (2014)
Goffman and the Infantilization of Elderly Persons: A Theory in Development

handle is hein.journals/jrlsasw41 and id is 713 raw text is: Goffman and the Infantilization of Elderly
Persons: A Theory in Development
STEPHEN M. MARSON
Gerontology Program
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
RASBY M. POWELL
Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Infantilization is a behavioral pattern in which a person of author-
ity interacts with, responds to, or treats an elderly person in a
child-like manner. This paper uses Erving Goffman's theories as a
framework from which to analyze the reasons for and the results of
infantilization of elderly residents in partial and total institutions
(i.e., adult day care centers and nursing homes). First, we review
the literature on infantilization. Next, we offer a brief summary of
Goffman's work and delineate his major theoretical assumptions.
Then, we analyze the process of infantilization through Goffnan's
theories. Finally, we offer suggestions for advancing research
using Goffman's premises. This paper asks whether infantiliza-
tion can produce symptoms of dementia in institutionalized elders.
If Goffman is correct, the answer may be yes. Six researchable
propositions are offered to test Goffman's theoretical framework.
Key words: Infantilization, Goffman, Dramaturgical Model, De-
mentia, Institutional Living
Elder residents of partial institutions such as adult day care
centers (see Salari, 2005) and total institutions (see Goffman,
1961) such as nursing homes experience many undeniable ben-
efits. Adult day care centers and nursing homes provide much
needed professional care that families are often ill equipped
to provide. At the same time, elders also experience negative
Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare, December 2014, Volume XLI, Number 4
143

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