Inside Age

Discrimination in

Working America

By Rasheed Scott

For : Dr. Griffin UWRT 1102

Age Discrimination at A Glance

Age discrimination is defined as the prejudicial treatment or denial of rights for an individual due to one’s age.

Often affects individuals who are age 40 and older. But generally people who are between 55 and 68 are targeted more.

As the Baby Boomer generation continues to age and look for employment or continues to be employed at an organization the level of age discrimination cases will rise.

Age Discrimination at A Glance CONT’D

Young people/Students typically face judgment in employment not only because of age, but also because of their little experience and work history in most cases but this isn’t illegal for employers to do.Older individuals however face age discrimination for one or more reasons, but they are protected under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (1967) which prevents discrimination on the premises of age in personnel and employment decisions.In some cases organizations have a set standard for the age of whom they hire. Some Jobs may require younger individuals due to endurance and strength and strong knowledge in todays modern technology and some employers for certain positions such as in management want an older person with more skills and crystalized intelligence.

Age specific jobsEmployers like Nike, Footlocker, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, H&M, Verizon Wireless and Jimmy Jazz will not hire an older person for certain positions like a Athlete (Nike Factory) Model or Sales Associate or Retail Consultant (VZW) typically because the areas listed area there to represent the brand and they also cater to a younger demographic so they would want younger individuals to represent it.

Now when it comes to managerial positions older people are look upon more by these employers due to their experience, knowledge and skills to run a business.

Psychological AffectsAge Discrimination in the workplace has been known to cause psychological affects such as increase stress and depression in individuals.

Older people who are not hired for a position or are mistreated at work because of their age cause a decrease in job satisfaction which overtime will lead to employee turnover which isn’t good for the organization nor the employee which in turn creates a more stressful life for them. Same applies to those who are searching for work but aren’t hired because of their age.

It has also been stated that stereotypes have formed about older workers by their supervisors. The supervisors feel that older workers are less flexible, less creative and harder to train than their younger counterparts.

Age Discrimination

Facts• Age Discrimination is

actually more common in individuals age 50 and over.

• The ADEA protects these older adults from age related personnel decisions in employment.

• Certain employers can use age as a determining factor in hiring and other personnel decisons