Disengagement Theory Essay

According to Lange and Grossman, sociological theories are ways to define adult’s ability to adapt on changing roles, relationships, and status within a culture or society (Mauk, 2010, pp. 51). Many of our choices are affected by societal norms. In other words, the heart of sociology focus on views of social backgrounds influencing attitudes, behavior, and life changes. Although each human being differs from one another, there is a common aspect that is shared. These shared qualities are perceived to create a bond that is unique. Humanity is not made of “just individuals but rather social beings deeply enmeshed in society” (Barkan, 2006). To create the balance within society, aging adults are adapted to certain mechanisms. Two common theories of sociology explaining this phenomenon are disengagement and activity theory.
First theory that needs to be addressed is disengagement theory. Sociologists Cumming and Henry created disengagement theory to characterize aging. The definition of this theory is quite different from activity theory. According to Barkan (2006), in order for younger people to assume important roles, “society must encourage its older people to disengage from their previous roles and to take on roles more
For instance a certain elderly, C.C., has no qualifications in order to disengage in society. She chooses to continue in life to remain her active role as a mother and active participant in her church duties. She has been an active member of the church ever since she was married to her husband in the 1960s. Despite her health issue of osteoporosis, she continues to engage and enrich her knowledge with her community. Actively seeking and providing for her family is the one role she never wants to leave. She states “ family is all she has now, why would I isolate myself from them. I will take care of them until my body lies six feet