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Abstract
Given the significant influence of self-perceptions of aging on longevity (Levy, Slade, Kunkel, & Kasl, 2002), a goal of the current study was to better understand how stereotypes of aging are related to self-perceptions of aging. This study investigated belief in stereotypes of aging, self-stereotyping, and locus of control (LOC) as possible correlates of self-perceptions. Eighty-six community-residing adults 54-91 years of age completed a questionnaire designed to assess the variables of interest. A path analysis showed that a greater belief in stereotypes was related to more self-stereotyping, which, in turn, was related to less positive self-perceptions of aging. Also, the relation between belief in stereotypes and self-stereotyping was moderated by LOC with higher internal LOC predicting less self-stereotyping. This study complements Levy et al.s (2002) findings by further characterizing the detrimental impact that belief in stereotypes of aging may eventually have on self-perceptions of aging and, thus, longevity.