Most ageism research has focused on prejudice against older people without considering
their multiple intersecting identities. We investigated perceptions of ageist acts that
targeted older individuals with intersecting racial (Black/White) and gender identities
(men/women). Both young (18–29) and older (65+) adult Americans evaluated the
acceptability of a variety of instances of hostile and benevolent ageism. Replicating
prior work, benevolent ageism was seen as more acceptable compared to hostile ageism, and
young adults rated ageist acts as more acceptable than older adults. Small intersectional
identity effects were observed such that young adult participants perceived older White
men to be the most acceptable targets of hostile ageism. Our research suggests that ageism
is viewed differently depending on the age of the perceiver and the type of behavior
exhibited. These findings also suggest intersectional memberships should be considered,
but further research is needed given the relatively small effect sizes.