The Development Of Independence Through The Life Stages

Question 1

Infancy and childhood:

Answer 1

Young children are dependent on others.
Towards end of the lifestage they become more independent and attempt to do things for themselves.
Gradually become less reliant on the family and start to make their own decisions.
Widen experiences e.g. start school, join clubs.
Develop likes and dislikes.

Question 2

Starting employment:

Answer 2

16-18years, adolescence think about carer options.
Need to be realistic and empowered to make informed choices.
Starting employment is the first step into adulthood.
Adapt to new routines and roles of school and university and workplace procedures.
Financial independence from employment.
Managing finances such as opening a bank account are important aspects of becoming independent.

Question 3

Leaving home:

Answer 3

Major transitional event.
It could mean making certain sacrifices such as lower standard of living.
New level of independence and self-reliance e.g. managing household bills require young adults to develop a new set of skills.

Question 4

Starting a family:

Answer 4

Develop parenting skills can provide a sense of identity and sense of achievement.
Requires lifestyle changes and sometimes financial difficulties.
Put the baby before themselves e.g. putting their career on hold this can impact financial and emotional independence.
Parenting is hard work and demands time and energy. - less independent.

Question 5

Middle Adulthood:

Answer 5

Do you have family responsibilities so can pursue hobbies and interest.
Reach the peak of their career so have disposable income that gives a more independence.
Can travel more.
However independence can be restricted by caring for their retired parents.

Question 6

Older adults:

Answer 6

After retirement many old people remain a busy social life enjoying freedom from a career.
Take advantage of free bus passes that increases independence.
Use social media to explore new interests and relationships.
However some older people begin to disengage from society…
This can be a lonely and vulnerable stage which means they lose independence as they rely on others for care.