16 Ways to Recognize and Resist Adultism in Everyday Life

Young people often face discrimination and prejudice based on their age, a phenomenon known as adultism. This pervasive yet often overlooked form of bias has a significant impact on child psychology and social stratification, shaping the experiences of youth in various aspects of life. Adultism, which refers to the discrimination against young people in favor of adults, manifests in many forms, from subtle everyday interactions to institutional policies that disregard the voices and rights of children and adolescents.

This article aims to explore the concept of adultism in depth, shedding light on its definition and origins. It will examine how to recognize adultist behaviors in daily life and discuss the effects of adultism on young people’s development. The piece will also delve into the intersectionality of adultism with other forms of oppression, provide strategies for adults to resist adultist tendencies, and offer guidance on empowering youth to recognize and resist adultism. Finally, it will address the need to transform institutions to combat this pervasive issue, ultimately working towards a more equitable society for people of all ages.

Understanding Adultism: Definition and Origins

What is adultism?

Adultism refers to the prejudice and systematic discrimination against young people based on the assumption that adults are superior. It is defined as “the power adults have over children” and “the bias towards adults, including their ideas, activities, and attitudes.” This phenomenon affects various aspects of society, including families, schools, justice systems, and the economy.

Adultism is often compared to ageism, but there is a distinct difference. While ageism refers to prejudice against any age group, adultism specifically targets young people. It stems from the belief that adults are inherently better than children and adolescents, and therefore entitled to act upon them without their agreement.

Historical context

The term “adultism” was first used by Patterson Du Bois in 1903, with a meaning broadly similar to its current usage. However, it wasn’t until the late 1970s that the concept gained widespread recognition through a journal article that defined adultism as “the abuse of the power that adults have over children.”

In the 1930s, the word “adultism” was briefly used in France to describe a condition where children possessed adult-like “physique and spirit,” leading them to engage in activities like stealing and prostitution. This usage was unrelated to the modern understanding of adultism as a form of discrimination.

Common misconceptions

1. Adultism is necessary for child protection: While protecting children from harm is essential, adultism goes beyond this and involves the systematic devaluation of young people’s perspectives and experiences.
2. Adultism is the same as ageism: As mentioned earlier, adultism specifically targets young people, while ageism can refer to discrimination against any age group, including the elderly.
3. Adultism is harmless: Research has shown that adultism can have negative impacts on child psychology and social stratification, hindering the proper development of young people.

It is crucial to recognize and address adultism in order to create a more equitable society that values and respects individuals of all ages.

Recognizing Adultist Behaviors in Daily Life

Adultism manifests in various forms, from subtle everyday interactions to institutional policies. It’s crucial to recognize these behaviors to address and combat this pervasive issue. Here are some common examples of adultist behaviors:

Verbal expressions

Consider the following statements that are essentially disrespectful towards young people:

• “You’re so smart for fifteen!”
• “When are you going to grow up?”
• “Don’t touch that, you’ll break it!”
• “As long as you are in my house, you’ll do it!”
• “You’re being childish.”
• “You’re so stupid (or clumsy, inconsiderate, etc.)!”
• “Go to your room!”
• “Don’t ever yell at your mother like that!” (yelling)
• “She doesn’t understand anything.” (about a baby)
• “You are too old for that!” or “You’re not old enough!”
• “Oh, it’s only puppy love.”
• “What do you know? You haven’t experienced anything!”
• “It’s just a stage. You’ll outgrow it.”

These statements reflect the underlying assumptions that adults are superior to young people and have the authority to dictate their actions and experiences.

Non-verbal cues

Most adults talk down to children, as if they cannot understand them. Adults often discuss a young person in their presence as if they are not there. Many adults give orders or lay down rules for young people without explanation. In general, adults do not truly listen to young people, do not take their concerns as seriously as they would an adult’s, and struggle to respect the thinking of young people as being on par with the quality of adult thinking. Yet, young people are expected to listen to adults all the time.

Institutional practices

Adultism is deeply ingrained in various institutions, such as schools and the justice system. In schools, students are subjected to incredible control through measures like hall passes, detention, suspension, and expulsion. While rules are necessary, they are often imposed on young people and enforced by adult staff.

• Teachers may yell at students without consequence, but students face disciplinary action for yelling back.
• Young people are sometimes punished unfairly due to adults’ frustrations.
• Students are forced to accept their grades, which can lead to internalized views of themselves as “smart,” “average,” or “dumb,” with profound impacts on their lives. However, students do not officially “grade” teachers.
• Young people have no real power in important decisions that affect their lives in school.

In the justice system, young people may be jailed for offenses only they can commit, like breaking curfews or truancy, while adults are not subject to such rules.

Recognizing these adultist behaviors in daily life is the first step towards challenging and dismantling this form of discrimination against young people.

The Impact of Adultism on Young People

Adultism has far-reaching consequences on young people’s well-being and development. It perpetuates a systematic bias that favors adults and disadvantages youth, fostering an environment that disempowers and restricts their participation in decision-making processes.

Psychological effects

Adultism can significantly impact young people’s self-esteem and confidence. When their voices are consistently dismissed or invalidated, they may begin to question their worth and capabilities. This can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Young people experiencing adultism often face a consistent pattern of disrespect and mistreatment, which can have the following effects:

1. Undermined self-confidence and self-esteem
2. An increasing sense of worthlessness
3. An increasing feeling of powerlessness
4. A consistent experience of not being taken seriously
5. A diminishing ability to function well in the world

The emotional legacy of years of this kind of treatment can be a heavy burden, leading to anger, feelings of powerlessness, insecurity, depression, lack of self-confidence, lack of self-respect, hopelessness, and feeling unloved or unwanted.

Social consequences

On a societal level, adultism can hinder young people’s development and contributions. It prevents them from fully participating in society, impacting their ability to influence decisions that affect their lives and stifling innovation and progress that could emerge from their unique perspectives.

Some young people may “act out” in response to adultism by bullying, being prone to violence, rebelling against societal norms, or leaving home early. Others may “act in” by becoming self-destructive through suicide attempts, alcohol and drug abuse, or depression. Some may seek a sense of belonging or safety by joining gangs, cliques, clubs, or teams, while others may isolate themselves, becoming lonely, not asking for help, and not trusting anyone.

Long-term implications

The impact of adultism can have long-lasting effects on young people’s lives. The systematic disrespect and mistreatment they face can shape their attitudes and behaviors, potentially leading to a cycle of perpetuating adultism themselves as they grow older.

Moreover, adultism intersects with other forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism. The particular ways young people are treated or mistreated are inseparable from their class, gender, or ethnic background. However, the phenomenon of being disrespected simply because of being young holds true across diverse backgrounds.

Addressing and dismantling adultism is crucial for creating a more equitable society that values and respects individuals of all ages, fostering an environment where young people can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives without facing systematic discrimination.

Suggestion for read: 6 Roots of Rebellious Behavior in Children

Intersectionality: How Adultism Interacts with Other Forms of Oppression

Adultism does not exist in isolation; it intersects with and reinforces other forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism. These interconnected systems of discrimination create compounded challenges for individuals who face multiple forms of marginalization.

Adultism and racism

The experiences of young people of color are shaped by the intersection of adultism and racism. They are more likely to face discriminatory treatment, such as being followed around stores or denied entry altogether. LGBTQIA+ youth of color are particularly vulnerable to this form of intersectional oppression.

Moreover, the biases and professional restrictions faced by adults of color can often be attributed to adultism, where their age is used as a justification for doubting their abilities, comprehension, or working capacities.

This intersection of adultism and racism perpetuates the notion of “white privilege” and upholds the social dominance of whiteness in North American society.

Adultism and sexism

Young girls and women face the compounded effects of adultism and sexism. From an early age, they are subjected to the hypersexualization and shaming of their bodies, reflecting the misogynistic attitudes deeply ingrained in society. Trans and gender non-conforming youth also experience limited control over their bodies and gender identities, further exacerbated by adultist attitudes.

Adultism and classism

Adultism is often used as a tool to reinforce classism and maintain the stagnation of social class status. The bias towards adults is colored by perceptions of who the adults are, how they should behave, and where they are located socioeconomically. Young people of all ages are routinely subjected to societal pressures to conform to adult standards, ensuring they remain within their designated social classes.

This intersection of adultism and classism is perpetuated through commercialization and marketing strategies that mask classism in a cloak of adultism, often coupled with racism and sexism. The goal is to condition young people to “act right” according to the norms and expectations of the dominant social class.

It is crucial to recognize and address these intersections, as individual forms of discrimination do not exist independently. Challenging adultism requires a holistic approach that acknowledges and tackles the interconnected nature of oppressive systems, fostering a more equitable society for individuals of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Strategies for Resisting Adultism as an Adult

As adults, it is our responsibility to challenge adultist behaviors and attitudes within ourselves and society. By adopting alternative caring behaviors, we can create a more equitable and respectful environment for young people. Here are some strategies to resist adultism:

Self-reflection techniques

1. Begin with self-reflection. Ask yourself questions like: “Would I speak to another adult in this tone of voice?” “Would I treat an adult this way?” “Would I make this decision for an adult?” Examine the assumptions behind your behaviors or comments towards young people.
2. Define how your thoughts and behaviors contribute to a situation, rather than jumping to conclusions about the young person’s behavior. Avoid degrading the concerns or issues of any young person.
3. Develop an awareness of your expectations of young people and adults. Identify your verbal and non-verbal communication patterns, especially ways of communicating that may be inappropriate for use with young people.
4. Seek knowledge about the political, societal, and economic realities of young people. Keep these ideas top of mind; it is easy to fall back into mainstream thinking. Avoid depending on only one or two sources of information. Develop critical thinking skills.

Changing communication patterns

1. Listen attentively to young people. Ask questions about their thoughts, experiences, and feelings. Validate their thinking and welcome their ideas. Be willing for them to make mistakes as part of the learning process.
2. Resist the urge to take over or do things for young people that they can do for themselves. Engage young people as partners in formulating plans to improve their lives or behaviors. Provide clear and constructive feedback that notes positive behaviors as well as areas for improvement.
3. Grant equal respect to young people’s cultural beliefs and practices; don’t presume adult ways are automatically better. Recognize that people’s personal experiences are a valid source of knowledge.
4. Make an effort to learn about the lives and concerns of young people. Make it a priority to get to know and interact personally with young people. Be open to changing your attitudes and beliefs based on your experiences with young people.

Advocating for youth rights

1. Believe in the potential and power of all people, both youth and adults. Reject efforts to scapegoat young people for today’s problems and see them as community assets rather than liabilities.
2. Treat youth with the respect and dignity of an equal. Engage with both youth and adults in creating rules and guidelines that affect all.
3. Work with youth and adults to create a sense of community where everyone feels trusted, respected, and empowered. Engage with youth in helping to generate possibilities rather than simply choosing among predetermined options.
4. Intervene supportively when a youth or an adult puts down or devalues another or self. Celebrate young people’s successes and cultivate opportunities for them to teach and lead.
5. Establish team and organizational priorities and strategies that value youth-adult partnerships. Advocate for continual improvement of youth-adult partnerships in teams, organizations, and communities.
6. Intervene supportively where young people’s rights and due respect are being denied by adults. Be willing to give up and share power with youth.

By implementing these strategies, adults can actively resist adultism and foster a more inclusive and empowering environment for young people to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives.

Empowering Youth to Recognize and Resist Adultism

Empowering young people to recognize and resist adultism is a crucial step towards creating a more equitable society. By fostering self-awareness, building self-advocacy skills, and creating supportive networks, youth can challenge the pervasive biases and discrimination they face based on their age.

Education and awareness

Educating youth about adultism is the first step in empowering them to recognize and resist this form of oppression. It is essential to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of what adultism is, its manifestations, and its impact on their lives. This knowledge can help them identify instances of adultist behaviors and attitudes, enabling them to challenge these biases effectively.

Incorporating discussions about adultism in school curricula, youth programs, and community initiatives can raise awareness and promote critical thinking among young people. By encouraging open dialogs and sharing personal experiences, youth can develop a deeper understanding of the systemic nature of adultism and its intersections with other forms of discrimination.

Building self-advocacy skills

Equipping youth with self-advocacy skills is vital in empowering them to assert their rights and voice their concerns. These skills include:

1. Self-knowledge and self-awareness: Encouraging youth to understand their strengths, challenges, and unique needs is the foundation for effective self-advocacy.
2. Communication skills: Teaching youth how to express themselves clearly, respectfully, and assertively can help them articulate their needs and advocate for themselves in various settings, such as schools, workplaces, and healthcare environments.
3. Problem-solving and decision-making: Developing problem-solving and decision-making abilities can enable youth to identify and address issues related to adultism, as well as participate actively in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
4. Understanding rights and procedures: Educating youth about their rights and the procedures for seeking support or addressing grievances can empower them to navigate systems and advocate for themselves effectively.

Incorporating self-advocacy training into youth programs, peer support groups, and mentorship initiatives can provide young people with the tools and confidence they need to challenge adultist attitudes and behaviors.

Creating support networks

Building supportive networks is crucial for empowering youth to resist adultism. These networks can provide a safe space for young people to share their experiences, seek advice, and find solidarity with others facing similar challenges.

1. Peer support groups: Facilitating peer support groups can foster a sense of community and belonging among youth, allowing them to learn from each other’s experiences and collectively challenge adultist narratives.
2. Mentorship programs: Connecting youth with mentors who have experience navigating adultism can offer guidance, support, and role models for effective self-advocacy.
3. Intergenerational collaborations: Encouraging intergenerational collaborations between youth and adults who are committed to challenging adultism can create opportunities for mutual understanding, respect, and shared decision-making.
4. Community partnerships: Establishing partnerships with community organizations, advocacy groups, and youth-led initiatives can provide resources, support, and amplify the voices of young people in their efforts to resist adultism.

By creating these supportive networks, youth can find strength in numbers, share strategies for resisting adultism, and collectively work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society that values and respects individuals of all ages.

Transforming Institutions to Combat Adultism

Combating adultism requires a comprehensive approach that addresses its systemic roots within various institutions. By challenging adultist policies and practices, we can create environments that foster respect, empowerment, and equal opportunities for individuals of all ages.

Schools and education systems

The institution of compulsory schooling is often a breeding ground for adultist oppression. The rigid roles of student, teacher, and parent perpetuate a hierarchical dynamic that strips away the humanity and potential of all individuals involved. To dismantle this dehumanizing system, we must reject the adultist assumptions that underlie it and embrace a vision of learning that is self-directed, consensual, and collaborative.

1. Rethink the roles of students, teachers, and parents: Instead of confining individuals to narrow and oppressive roles, create environments that honor their full humanity and potential, regardless of age.
2. Promote self-directed learning: Encourage learning environments that empower students to take ownership of their education, fostering autonomy, critical thinking, and self-advocacy.
3. Embrace collaborative approaches: Foster genuine partnerships between students, teachers, and parents, where decision-making processes are inclusive and collaborative, valuing the perspectives and experiences of all stakeholders.
4. Provide anti-adultism training: Implement comprehensive training programs for educators, administrators, and staff to raise awareness about adultism, its manifestations, and strategies to combat it within educational settings.

Legal and policy changes

Adultist biases are often deeply ingrained in legal and policy frameworks, perpetuating discrimination against young people. To address this, advocacy efforts are crucial to influence systemic changes at various levels.

1. Review and revise existing laws and policies: Critically examine laws, policies, and guidelines that promote or enable adultist practices, and work towards amending or replacing them with inclusive and equitable alternatives.
2. Advocate for policy change: Collaborate with advocacy groups, community organizations, and policymakers to advocate for sustainable solutions that protect the rights and dignity of young people.
3. Promote youth representation: Ensure that young people have a voice and active participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives, fostering inclusive governance and policy development.
4. Implement accountability measures: Establish mechanisms to hold institutions accountable for adultist practices, ensuring transparency and consequences for violations of anti-adultism policies.

Community organizations

Community-based organizations play a vital role in challenging adultism and promoting inclusive practices within local contexts. By adopting a community-centered approach, these organizations can empower individuals, address systemic challenges, and drive sustainable change.

1. Encourage community leadership: Empower local residents, particularly young people, to take leadership roles in identifying issues, crafting solutions, and driving change within their communities.
2. Build capacity and resources: Invest in capacity-building initiatives and resource allocation to support community organizations in their efforts to combat adultism and promote youth empowerment.
3. Foster collaborative networks: Facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among community organizations, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to amplify their collective impact and create a unified front against adultism.
4. Promote community-driven solutions: Encourage community-based organizations to develop contextually relevant solutions that address the unique needs and challenges faced by their communities, ensuring sustainable and meaningful change.

By transforming institutions through these comprehensive strategies, we can dismantle the systemic roots of adultism and create a more equitable society that values and respects individuals of all ages, fostering an environment where young people can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives without facing discrimination.

Conclusion

Recognizing and resisting adultism is crucial to create a more equitable society that values and respects individuals of all ages. By understanding its definition, origins, and manifestations in daily life, we can start to challenge this pervasive form of discrimination. Empowering youth to recognize and resist adultism, while also transforming institutions to combat it, are key steps towards dismantling this systemic bias that has a significant impact on child psychology and social stratification.

Addressing adultism requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, and institutions. By fostering self-reflection, changing communication patterns, and advocating for youth rights, we can create environments that honor the full humanity and potential of young people. At Inquire Talk, we understand the importance of mental health and well-being in relationships, and our online counseling and therapy services are available to support individuals navigating the complexities of their emotional lives. Together, we can work towards a future where young people’s voices are heard, respected, and valued, ultimately creating a more inclusive and empowering society for all.

Here are few certified therapists who you can get in touch and book a therapy session with:

Tommaso Palumbo

Paula Brown

Carmen Winch