Growth mindset of aging and its association with emerging adults’ self and general perceptions of aging

Stereotypes about older adults have become more negative over time. Emerging adulthood shapes individuals’ views about aging and their life trajectory. While a growth mindset and positive self-perceptions of aging are linked to better health in older adults, little is known about these beliefs in younger populations. This study explored these constructs in 105 undergraduate students in the Midwest United States. Surprisingly, a growth mindset of aging was associated with more negative self-perceptions of aging (r = − 0.22, p = 0.03), suggesting individuals with a growth mindset may be more self-critical about aging. In contrast, general perceptions of aging were associated with more positive self-perceptions of aging (r = 0.31, p < 0.001), reflecting alignment between personal and societal views. Growth mindset and general aging perceptions were not correlated. These findings deepen our understanding of aging perceptions in younger adults and emphasize the need for further research on whether mindset-based interventions can impact aging attitudes early in life.