Explored perceptions of 31 old-old adults regarding exchanges in their social relationships. Qualitative methodology identified six cognitive mechanisms used to assess equity in social exchanges. Their use appeared associated with both beneficial and detrimental subjective reactions. Findings suggest that cognitive mechanisms are important focus…

Examined equity in marriage in 400 middle-aged and older married women who described equity at eight points across their lifespan. Results suggested women begin a marriage with a sense of overbenefit, move into a period of underbenefit during their middle years, and feel fairly treated in late middle age. (JAC)

With more rigorous and systematic integration of gerontological data with social and social psychological theory, more comprehensive explanations of life course phenomena would result. Moreover, the age variable would be considered by other sociologists as less of a control and more of a relevant variable in its own right. (Author)

Examines nonverbal expressions of power and control in the daily lives of old people from a life-span perspective. Because of societal devaluation of the aged and later life declines in power resources, old people experience loss of status and social control during everyday nonverbal rituals of dominance and deference. (Author)

Presents and compares underlying assumptions of these theories as they might expand understanding of intergenerational transfers: social exchange theory, kin selection theory of altruism, human capital theory, social constructivist theory, and rational transfers theory. Recommends comparative studies to gain insight into strengths and weaknesses…