Public Perceptions of Elder Abuse - Global Action on Aging

This incongruence with definitions, particularly at governmental level is also likely
to impact on how elder abuse is perceived and defined by the general public.
2.2 A social taboo
Despite elder abuse being a long-standing societal problem, it has been a
phenomenon that has been deemed a ‘social taboo’ kept behind closed doors,
within familial boundaries and institutions and shielded away from public scrutiny
(Bennett et al.1997). People generally struggle to discuss such a sensitive issue
and to report incidences <strong>of</strong> elder mistreatment (Penhale 2008). It is <strong>of</strong>ten an
unmentionable topic, particularly for older people as they frequently depend on
relatives for care and support as they age, making them even more vulnerable
(Daskalopoulos et al. 2006a). Underreporting by older people, families, carers
and the general public also occurs because <strong>of</strong> a lack <strong>of</strong> awareness and
understanding <strong>of</strong> abusive behaviours.
Previous studies have predominately focused on pr<strong>of</strong>essionals’ perceptions <strong>of</strong>
elder abuse (Haribson & Morrow 1998), and less so on public perspectives. To
deal adequately with elder abuse and to develop interventions that are effective,
it is important to ascertain the public’s perceptions <strong>of</strong> the kinds <strong>of</strong> behaviours and
treatment which they believe constitute abuse and mistreatment <strong>of</strong> older people.
What might be considered abusive in one culture may be very different as to
what constitutes abusive behaviour in another (Tatara 1999). Significant
differences between various ethnic groups have been found in what is considered
elder abuse. Furthermore, greater tolerance has been shown for certain forms <strong>of</strong>
elder abuse in certain cultures (Moon & Williams 1993). Much <strong>of</strong> the existing
literature reports on surveys which have examined elder abuse in terms <strong>of</strong>
cultural differences. Although surveys conducted about sensitive issues can be
taxing, they are a means <strong>of</strong> eliciting the public’s views about such private matters
(Ryan et al. 2001).
<strong>Public</strong> perceptions <strong>of</strong> elder abuse may affect judgement on what is considered
acceptable behaviour towards and treatment <strong>of</strong> older people. Thus, these
perceptions can also have implications for the prevention and identification <strong>of</strong>
elder abuse. Increased knowledge, understanding and awareness <strong>of</strong> abusive
incidents towards older people could enable people to recognise abusive
situations and to react more appropriately and promptly (Werner et al. 2005).
This review will provide an insight into how elder abuse is defined and perceived
by the public.
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