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Grumpy Old Men?

New research indicates that older people are “more likely to choose to read negative articles about those younger than themselves. They also tended to show less interest in articles about older people, whether negative or positive.” The researchers think older people may get a self-esteem boost from the negative coverage. “Living in a youth centered culture, they may appreciate a boost in self-esteem,” said Dr. Silvia Knobloch-Westerwick, one of the study’s authors. “That’s why they prefer the negative stories about younger people, who are seen as having a higher status in our society.” Younger people, in contrast, preferred to read positive stories about other young’uns. (HT: Marginal Revolution) [%comments]


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