M. Powell Lawton

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Mortimer Powell Lawton (1923–2001) was an American psychologist who was known for his work on the psychological and social aspects of aging.[1]

Early life and education[edit]

Lawton was born in Atlanta and received his undergraduate degree from Haverford College in 1947 and his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Columbia University in 1952.[2]

Career[edit]

Lawton began his career as the chief psychologist at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island.[2]

Lawton held academic positions at the Medical College of Pennsylvania and the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia.[2]

In the early 1960s, he conducted research on the design of living spaces for older adults, including those with Alzheimer's disease.[2] His work influenced the services provided at the Philadelphia Geriatric Center and elder care practices in the United States.[2]

Lawton served as the editor-in-chief of The Annual Review of Gerontology and Geriatrics and was a fellow of the American Psychological Association, where he also served as the president of its division focused on adult development and aging.[2] He was a founding editor of the journal Psychology and Aging. Colleagues dedicated a book to him titled The Many Dimensions of Aging, which explores various aspects of his work.[2]

Recognition[edit]

M. Powell Lawton Award is named after him.[3]

References[edit]

  1. ^ "APA PsycNet". psycnet.apa.org.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Saxon, Wolfgang (February 5, 2001). "Dr. M. Powell Lawton, 77, Expert on the Elderly" – via NYTimes.com.
  3. ^ "M. Powell Lawton Award". www.geron.org.