The Importance Of Ageism In The Workplace

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Ageism has become more prevalent for the last several decades. The workforce is increasing in age and employees are working longer before retirement. As an organization, there is a need to understand what defines ageism and the ramifications that ageism can cause. As with many populations in the U.S., myths and stereotypes have developed regarding the older working population that should be addressed with HR professionals and co-workers. As well as, the importance of implementing strategies to prevent ageism. Awareness is the greatest resource in reducing ageism, creating cohesiveness in the workplace and allowing the organization to be a productive and competitive entity within the business society. Defining Ageism Ageism is a term that describes age discrimination in the workplace. This is seen when a person's age is used unfairly as a factor when deciding who receives a new job, promotion, or other job benefits. "Ageism can take many forms, including prejudicial attitudes, discriminatory practices, or institutional policies and practices that perpetuate stereotypical beliefs." (World Health Organization, 2017) Age discrimination can be divided …show more content…

The case was Western Air Lines vs Criswell regarding a requirement of age to be a flight engineer. The BFOQ had listed an occupational qualification that the maximum age for a flight engineers as being 60 years. The BFOQ was overriding the ADEA's regulation claiming that this qualification was for ensuring public safety. However, the Supreme Court supported Criswell and decided that an employer could not set a maximum age without substantial proof that indeed the public safety would be effected if said individual was to work above a certain age. This now shifted the burden of proof onto the employer when establishing restrictive

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