Socioemotional Selectivity Theory
Socioemotional Selectivity Theory suggests that as people age, they become more selective about how they spend their time and with whom. They prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences, focusing on emotional satisfaction rather than acquiring new information or broadening social circles. This shift in focus happens because older individuals perceive their time as limited, leading them to seek out positive, emotionally fulfilling connections and activities, rather than pursuing long-term goals or superficial interactions. This theory helps explain the changes in social behavior as people navigate the later stages of life.
Additional Insights
-
Socioemotional selectivity theory suggests that as people age, they become more selective about how they spend their time and with whom. Recognizing that time is limited, older adults tend to prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences that provide emotional fulfillment. Instead of pursuing expansive social networks or new experiences, they focus on deepening connections with close friends and family, leading to greater life satisfaction. Essentially, this theory highlights how our perceptions of time influence our social priorities and emotional well-being throughout life.