What challenges are there in the definition of elderly maltreatment (EM) within cultural contexts?

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Among cultures, differences frequently exist in the identification, perception, and response to abuse; therefore, narrow definitions may not reflect the experience of the population under study. To effectively address the problem of EM, definitions must reflect “cultural contexts”. Numerous challenges exist in the definition of EM within cultural contexts. According to Matsumoto (2007), diversity among cultures exists “because of differences in the ecological contexts in which each group exists-the physical environment, resources available, social factors, history, and types and sizes of their families and communities.” Cultural and social norms serve to guide the behaviors and attitudes for the members of a population. Yet, cultural and social mores may not always be reflected in an individual’s attitudes or behavior. The existence of a given custom does not mean the custom is either adaptive, optimal, or consented to by most of its adherents. Broad assumptions about abuse within a cultural context should be avoided as they can hinder efforts to address EM. Often these general characterizations do not account for variations that may occur due to other factors such as religion, family dynamics, and acculturation. Although cultural dynamics have received more attention in addressing EM, gaps in knowledge persist.

Matsumoto, D. (2007). Culture, context, and behavior. Journal of personality, 75(6), 1285-1320.