The present study examined the psychometric properties of a new instrument, the Multidimensional Attitude Toward Older Adults Scale (MATOAS), administered to a total of 787 undergraduate students at a Midwestern university. Factor structure of the MATOAS was investigated with a split-sampling approach in order to cross validate the findings between exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). EFA suggested a four-factor structure with 25 items. These factors were named Respect and Appreciation (R-A), Irritation and Intolerance (I-I), Work Interests (W-I), and Social Connectedness (S-C). The results of CFA testing of the higher-order four-factor model showed significant improvement in various fit indices from the previously tested tripartite attitudes model (Rosenberg & Hovland, 1960) and the uni-dimensional model.The MATOAS demonstrated fairly high internal consistency reliability (α = .88) and high test-retest reliability over a one week period (r =.89, p < .001). Convergent validity of the MATOAS with the refined version of the Aging Semantic Differential Scale (Polizzi & Millikin, 2002) and divergent validity with the 13-item Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale (Reynolds, 1982) also were promising. The present study provides extensive reviews of the Kogan Attitudes Toward Old People scale (Kogan, 1961 a) and the Aging Semantic Differential (Rosencranz & McNeivin, 1969) as well as established and contemporary guidelines for scale development work. / Department of Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services

The purpose of this study was to compare two groups of nurses's attitudes towards the elderly and the knowledge base of the nurses as to signs, symptoms and interventions with depression and dementia in the elderly. The theoretical framework for this study was Oren's (1985) self-care deficit theory. Attitude was measured using the Koan Attitude Toward Old People Scale (Koan, 1961) and knowledge was measured using a scale developed by (Myton, Allen, and Baldwin, 1991).The population studied was registered nurses working at these state hospitals in a midwestern state and agency nurses from four agencies that provide staff coverage at these hospitals. The convenience sample consisted of state nurses (n=65) and agency nurses (n=38). A cover letter explaining confidentiality and voluntary participation was attached to each survey. Completion of the survey constituted consent to participate in the study. There were no identified risks related to participation in the study.The study did not identify significant differences between groups in any of the variables involving attitude toward the elderly, ability to differentiate signs, symptoms, and interventions for dementia and depression in the elderly. Both groups were able to correctly identify signs, symptoms and interventions for dementia and depression about one-half the time. The treatment modalities are different for dementia and depression. The problem is significant because if signs, symptoms and interventions are not identified correctly the patient will not be assisted toward recovery and self-care may decrease. The recommendation for increased inservice education on gerontological nursing are applicable to both groups. / School of Nursing

Tam Pui Ching, Maria. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1996. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 67-73). / Questionnaire also in Chinese. / Chapter Chapter One: --- Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter Chapter Two: --- Literature Review --- p.5 / Cultivation Theory --- p.5 / Stereotypes and Attitudes toward the Elderly --- p.8 / Factors Affecting Stereotypes --- p.9 / Media Influence on Attitudes toward the Elderly --- p.12 / Cultural Values of Family and Ageing --- p.15 / Chapter Chapter Three: --- Rationale and Hypotheses --- p.20 / Rationale --- p.20 / Hypotheses --- p.23 / Chapter Chapter Four: --- Methodology --- p.29 / Sample --- p.29 / Measurement of Chinese Cultural Values --- p.30 / Measurement of Attitudes toward the Elderly --- p.33 / Measurement of Stereotypes about the Elderly --- p.37 / Media Exposure --- p.39 / Chapter Chapter Five: --- Findings --- p.41 / Testing Hypothesis H1 --- p.46 / Testing Hypothesis H2 --- p.47 / Testing Hypothesis H3 --- p.47 / Testing Hypothesis H4 --- p.48 / Testing Hypothesis H5 --- p.48 / Testing Hypothesis H6 --- p.49 / Testing Hypothesis H7 --- p.50 / Chapter Chapter Six: --- Discussion and Conclusion --- p.52 / Appendix1 --- p.62 / References --- p.67