Age differences in the conceptualization and experience of curiosity: A qualitative study

What is it about?

We explored lay perceptions of what curiosity is and how it is experienced in younger and older adults. We also assessed whether these conceptualizations varied between younger and older adults. We found that curiosity was often conceptualized as a form of joyous exploration, but younger adults more frequently described curiosity in relation to its deprivation aspects (i.e., an itch to know), whereas older adults discussed its implications within social contexts (i.e., taking an interest in others). Moreover, although both younger and older adults described curiosity as a positive trait, younger participants more frequently noted that it should be expressed in moderation, due to its potentially harmful consequences.

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Photo by Buddha Elemental 3D on Unsplash

Photo by Buddha Elemental 3D on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Curiosity is becoming an increasingly studied behaviour both in general, and in the context of its importance for healthy aging. Many definitions of curiosity exist, but it is critical to explore whether these definitions align with lay perceptions because this can have implications for (1) how we measure curiosity and (2) why we may observe age differences in it.