It has been argued that ageism is not as prevalent as the current literature maintains. In fact, it has been argued that many of the findings are simply the result of methodological artifacts. For example, Schonfield (1985) examined the language used in many questionnaires. He found the question wording could significantly affect the responses on each item studied. For example, individuals responded differently if the statement was phrased "people do become more alike in certain respects as they grow older", and "most people are not pretty much alike". Therefore, particular care needs to go into questionnaire development.

Kogan (1979) cites another problem with ageism research. Kogan asserts that within-subject designs are likely to find attitudinal age differences even if no differences exist. This is proposed to occur as age is pushed to the foreground in the subject1s mind with a within-subjects design. As such, the research participant becomes aware that the researcher is looking for age difference. Therefore, age differences are found.

Certainly, methodological errors have been made in the study of ageism. However, there are so many indicators of negative attitudes towards aging and the aged in our society, that the concept of ageism can not be simply written off as a methodological artifact. All an individual needs to do is take a trip to their local Hallmark store or turn on their television for a plethora of ageism example. The problems discussed, however, underscore the necessity for meticulousness in experimental design.

Certainly, more research needs to be done in the area of ageism. In particular, more research on the attitudes of older adults towards older adults needs to be conducted, and the impact of those attitudes addressed. For example, the effect of ageist attitudes on the older adult1s self-concept needs to be studied. It is also important that both the positive and the negative stereotypes associated with ageism be studied. Unfortunately, the research concerning ageism has dropped off precipitously in the 1990s.