Gender scripts in the old age subjectivation of men: A theoretical pledge through empirics

The article is based on a research study and uses less well-known conceptual and analytical tools. It focuses on the divergent gendering of older and old men from the perspective of the public/private divide. Preliminary research shows the greater presence of men at home and more care work, while women are becoming more active in the public. For the research on the hypothetical alternative of gendered old age, a target group of the highly educated and/or well professionally skilled older and old men was constituted. All of them possess above-average social and cultural capital. The results show familial involvement already during the employment period, and a perceptible presence in public life after retirement. Nevertheless, the research pointed to the hidden mechanisms of hegemonic masculinity, which could add to the theoretical deconstruction of gender hierarchies.