Social Models of aging deal with changes over the life course. Using a
loose definition of model, this paper reviews models under the follow
ing classification: Allocation models; Construction of the Life Course
models; Personality and Socialization models; and Negotiation models.
Differences between and within these models are explored, with partic
ular reference to the issue of determinism and the conceptualization o
f social structure. The life course perspective is recognized as hegem
onic in contemporary theorizing about aging, but it is seen as itself
embracing diverse models.