Which term best describes prejudice or discrimination based on age?

• A. Age Discrimination
• B. Gerontophobia
• C. Ageism
• D. Senior Bias

Answer: (C)

Ageism describes attitudes, beliefs, and practices that devalue or disadvantage people because of their age. It covers both prejudice (like stereotypes that older adults are less capable) and discrimination (such as biased policies or treatment in hiring, housing, or services) based on age, which is why it’s the best fit for describing prejudice or discrimination rooted in age. Age discrimination refers more narrowly to actions or policies that treat someone unfavorably due to age, without necessarily naming the underlying attitudes. Gerontophobia is a fear or aversion to aging or older people, not a broad term for prejudice or discriminatory behavior. Senior bias isn’t a standard, precise term in psychology. So the widely accepted term is ageism.