Feminism as a conflict approach to age inequality

Feminism approaches age inequality as a conflict perspective, examining how patriarchal structures create specific disadvantages for women as they age. This approach emphasises how gender and age intersect to create unique forms of oppression that differ from those experienced by older men.

Key feminist explanations for inequalities faced by older women

Arber and Ginn's observations on patriarchal inequalities

Arber and Ginn, sociologists studying gender and ageing, highlight how older women encounter inequalities rooted in patriarchy that are not experienced by older men to the same extent.

Itzin's concept of double devaluation

Itzin argues that older women are doubly devalued by society, experiencing a loss of status after the menopause because they can no longer bear children, and also after retirement age.

Patriarchal pressures on women to resist ageing

A key aspect of feminist analysis is the intense societal pressure on women to combat visible signs of ageing, which stems from patriarchal ideals that value women based on youth and appearance. This pressure manifests in expectations to engage in 'cosmeticisation' – practices aimed at maintaining a youthful look through hair dyes, anti-ageing creams, yoga or Pilates classes, and cosmetic surgery. In contrast, men face far less pressure to engage in these practices.

Criticisms of feminist approaches to age inequality

Key criticisms of feminist explanations:

• Overemphasis on patriarchy - Critics argue that feminists exaggerate the role of patriarchy while overlooking other factors, such as poverty.
• Assumption of universal experiences - Feminists are accused of assuming that all women share similar experiences of ageing, ignoring how wealth and social class can reduce the impact of patriarchy.
• Underestimation of pressures on men - Some point out that men also face growing pressures to 'cosmeticise', suggesting this is driven by commercial interests for profit rather than purely patriarchal forces.
• Neglect of agency and choice - Social action theorists criticise feminists for portraying women as passive victims forced into cosmeticisation by stigma. Instead, they suggest women often choose these practices voluntarily.