| Abstract: | Reciprocity between young women and aged women is a powerful inducement in encouraging young women to consider work with elderly adults. Research shows that strict skills training and productivity models of care can drain the emotional resources of young women and devalue the personal virtues of the aged who are served. A sample survey supports the idea that young women need positive experiences with aged women to consider working with them. Using developmental models of Erikson, Erikson and Kivnick (1986), Gilligan (1982), Kegan (1982) and others, a concept of intimacy (McAdams, 1986) in the service environment can instill hope and integrity in young and aged women. Intimate encounters with aged women, promoted by training in developmental awareness and communications, can be the motivation a young woman needs to consider or continue service work with an expanding aged population. |
