Why People Feel Younger: Motivational and Social-Cognitive Mechanisms of the Subjective Age Bias and Its Implications for Work and Organizations

Abstract

The term subjective age bias describes the phenomenon that from adolescence to old age most people feel significantly younger or older than their chronological age. Although recent advances in life-span development research demonstrate the fundamental role of subjective age bias for well-being, performance, and health, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. By highlighting the motivational and social-cognitive mechanisms of the subjective age bias, we answer 3 crucial questions and discuss implications for work and organizations. We conclude with recommendations for future research.