Uncertainty in Aging and Lifespan Research: Covid-19 as Catalyst for Addressing the Elephant in the Room
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Author / Producer
Date
2020-10
Publication Type
Journal Article
ETH Bibliography
yes
Citations
Altmetric
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Rights / License
Abstract
Uncertainty is at the center of debates on how to best cope with the Covid-19 pandemic. In our exploration of the role of uncertainty in current aging and lifespan research, we build on an uncertainty regulation framework that includes both reduction and creation of uncertainty as viable self-regulatory processes. In particular, we propose that future time perspective, a key component in models of successful aging, should be reconceptualized in terms of uncertainty regulation. We argue that by proactively regulating the amount of uncertainty one is exposed to, individuals’ future time perspective can be altered. We show how extant research might be (re)interpreted based on these considerations and suggest directions for future research, challenging a number of implicit assumptions about how age and uncertainty are interlinked. We close with some practical implications for individuals and organizations for managing the Covid-19 crisis.
Permanent link
Publication status
published
External links
Editor
Book title
Journal / series
Volume
6 (4)
Pages / Article No.
246 - 250
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Event
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
lifespan; aging; uncertainty
Organisational unit
03356 - Grote, Gudela / Grote, Gudela
Notes
It was possible to publish this article open access thanks to a Swiss National Licence with the publisher.