Josée Lévesque
DIPLOMAS :
Master’s degree in Social Work (2011), University of Sherbrooke.
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (2007), University of Sherbrooke.
CURRENT STUDIES :
N.a.
SUBJECT OF STUDY PROJECT :
Tackling ageism through intergenerational practices.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AMOUNTS RECEIVED :
Auclair Family Fellowship (outstanding academic performance) (2011) : $3500
Research Chair Fellowship (2011) : $2500
COMPLETION DATE :
Successfully completed preparatory courses in 2008/2009, and started her Master’s degree in Social Work in Fall 2009.
She completed an internship in Fall 2010 and wrote her thesis in 2011.
RESERCH PROBLEM :
In the context of an ageing population, in particular in 2011 where the number of people aged 65 years and over exceeds the number of children under 15 years of age in Quebec society (Seniors’ Council, 2007), it is important to examine the images conveyed of ageing, their impact, as well as what can be done to counter age discrimination. Following the identification of this social reality and the resulting consequences, it becomes necessary to consider a concept of change.
GOAL OR RESEARCH QUESTION :
What can we do to counter ageism?
OBJECTIVES :
By exposing certain innovative practices such as the use of the Factual Quiz on Aging – Quebec version, an awareness-raising and educational tool, this essay suggests courses of action focused on, first, behaviour modification of both older adults and those around them and, second, the transformation of social connections. The final step is to shed light on the social, scientific and practical relevance of the fight against ageism through an intergenerational approach, and to become aware of issues pertaining to gerontological social work.
METHODOLOGY :
Based on a critical literature review on ageism, intergenerational relationships and social work practices in these areas, this essay proposes and in-depth examination of ageism and the use of intergenerational practices as a means of countering it.
WORK PROGRESS :
In Winter 2011, Josée wrote an essay in social work on the fight against ageism through intergenerational practices. The essay ties in with the internship she did in Fall 2010, which also focused on the fight against ageism. In addition, Josée has published an article related to her master’s thesis.
COMMUNICATIONS :
PUBLICATIONS :
Scientific articles
Lévesque, J., & Beaulieu, M. (2011). Lutter contre l’âgisme par le biais d’activités intergénérationnelles : Réflexions tirées d’une pratique. Vie et vieillissement, 9(3), 6-12.
Monograph
Lévesque, J. (2011). S’attaquer à l’âgisme par le biais de pratiques intergénérationnelles (Essai de maîtrise). Faculté des lettres et sciences humaines, École de travail social, Université de Sherbrooke, 113p.