Socioemotional Selectivity Theory

Definition

Socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) suggests that as people age, they tend to prioritize emotionally meaningful information and experiences over less emotionally significant ones. This shift occurs because older adults often recognize their limited time remaining, leading them to focus on emotional fulfillment rather than accumulating new knowledge or engaging with negative emotions.

Example

Imagine an elderly individual who decides to spend their afternoon visiting a close friend instead of attending a workshop on a new technology. They choose the social interaction for its emotional value over learning something new, even though they might have done so in the past.

Why It Matters

Understanding SST is important as it highlights how aging affects cognitive and emotional focus. It underscores the importance of emotional well-being in later life, guiding the creation of age-friendly environments and policies that prioritize meaningful interactions. This theory helps us design social programs and technologies that cater to the emotional needs of older adults, enhancing their quality of life by respecting their prioritization of emotionally rewarding experiences over information acquisition.