Adultism

1. Adultism

Adultism is a term used to describe the systematic discrimination against young people and the privileging of adults. It encompasses the belief that adults are superior to young people and that they are entitled to act upon young people without their consent. This concept is often discussed in the context of ageism, but it specifically focuses on the power dynamics between adults and younger individuals.

Definition

Adultism is defined as the bias towards adults, which results in the marginalization and oppression of young people. It manifests in various forms, including the assumption that adults are more capable, intelligent, and deserving of respect than younger individuals. This bias can be seen in societal structures, cultural norms, and interpersonal interactions.

Manifestations of Adultism

Adultism can manifest in several ways, including:

• **Language and Communication**: Adults often use patronizing language when speaking to young people, assuming they are less capable of understanding complex ideas.
• **Decision-Making**: Young people are frequently excluded from decision-making processes that affect their lives, under the assumption that they lack the maturity or experience to contribute meaningfully.
• **Legal and Institutional Structures**: Many laws and institutional policies are designed to control and restrict the behavior of young people, often without their input or consent.
• **Cultural Norms**: Societal norms often dictate that young people should "respect their elders," which can perpetuate power imbalances and discourage young people from voicing their opinions.

Impact of Adultism

The impact of adultism can be profound, affecting the self-esteem, autonomy, and development of young people. It can lead to:

• **Reduced Self-Esteem**: Constantly being told that their opinions are less valuable can lead young people to doubt their self-worth.
• **Lack of Autonomy**: Being excluded from decision-making processes can hinder the development of independence and critical thinking skills.
• **Social Inequality**: Adultism contributes to broader patterns of social inequality by reinforcing hierarchical structures based on age.

Criticism and Advocacy

Critics of adultism argue that it is a form of oppression that needs to be addressed through education and policy changes. Advocates for youth rights emphasize the importance of including young people in decision-making processes and respecting their autonomy.

Also see

• Ageism
• Youth rights
• Childism
• Intergenerational equity