Symbolic interactionism states that behaviors and norms are learned through individual experience and are subject to change over time
Ageism is a learned behavioral ideology that can be observed in interpersonal relationships in the family and larger society, and it is socialized directly and indirectly by people from youth.
The continuity theory is a micro social theory that analyzes the interpersonal relationships and systems present in an individual’s life as they age, and it operates under a functional belief that people desire continuity in their lives as they age and attempt to maintain the same relationships and systems present in their younger lives as well as the same intrapersonal beliefs and ideologies. George L. Maddox and Robert Atchley helped usher continuity theory into use in social science research in the mid-20th century.
Disengagement theory contrasts continuity theory, proposing that it is natural and acceptable for individuals to withdraw from society and relationships as they age. Unlike continuity theory, which claims individuals want to continue with their daily lives as they age, disengagement theory sees aging as inevitable and the disengagement that comes with it as a result.