Which view holds that aging makes a person’s social sphere narrow, leading to role relinquishment, withdrawal, and passivity?

Which view holds that aging makes a person’s social sphere narrow, leading to role relinquishment, withdrawal, and passivity?

• A. NORC
• B. Age in place
• C. AARP
• D. Disengagement theory

Answer: (D)

Aging as a natural process of withdrawing from social roles and activities is described by a theory of disengagement. This view holds that as people grow older, they gradually reduce their social involvement, relinquish roles they once held, and become more withdrawn and passive. The description in the question—a narrowing social sphere, relinquishing roles, withdrawal, and passivity—fits this view directly, which is why it’s the best match. In contrast, the other options aren’t theories about how aging shifts social engagement: NORC is a research organization, age-in-place refers to living in one’s own residence, and AARP is a advocacy group for older adults. It’s also worth noting that disengagement theory has faced criticisms for assuming withdrawal is universal, but for identifying this specific pattern, it aligns best.

Aging as a natural process of withdrawing from social roles and activities is described by a theory of disengagement. This view holds that as people grow older, they gradually reduce their social involvement, relinquish roles they once held, and become more withdrawn and passive. The description in the question—a narrowing social sphere, relinquishing roles, withdrawal, and passivity—fits this view directly, which is why it’s the best match. In contrast, the other options aren’t theories about how aging shifts social engagement: NORC is a research organization, age-in-place refers to living in one’s own residence, and AARP is a advocacy group for older adults. It’s also worth noting that disengagement theory has faced criticisms for assuming withdrawal is universal, but for identifying this specific pattern, it aligns best.