Week 11 - Adulthood (first 2 phases) Flashcards
What does timing of events theories mean?
Development follows a normative pattern of sequence and timing.
Norms are subject to constant transition across culture and time.
What is the social clock?
On time = following the social timetable
Off time = out of phase with peers.
What are normative crisis theories?
Describes the sequence of age related conflicts which must be overcome, in order for optimal development.
Resolution of conflicts. If it is not worked through right away, we might feel this effect later.
Unsuccessful completion of a particular stage is believed to hinder optimal development
Broadly, what are the stages of crisis according to the 3 different theorists?
Erikson:
Early adulthood = intimacy versus isolation
Middle adulthood = generativity versus stagnation
Levinson:
Early adulthood = era
Middle adulthood = era
Valliant
Early adulthood = development of intimacy (20s) and career consolidation (30s)
Middle adulthood = generativity (40s and 50s)
What did Valliant conclude from his 3x longitudinal studies
Warmth and love in relationships across lifespan makes critical difference - people and relationships you engage with are most important.
Participants who did not master identity, failed to achieve independence from family.
Were not able to commit to work or intimate relationships
Alcoholism = destructive
Identification of adaptive and maladaptive mechanisms for coping with life.
Criticism = heterogeneity/ selection bias
What are the adaptive mechanisms to coping with life, described by Valliant?
Adaptive = sublimation (channeling negative energy into other activities), humour, altruism, suppression (to a degree)
What are the maladaptive mechanisms described by Valliant?
Maladaptive = projection, passive aggression, dissociation, acting out, fantasy.
Healthy development moves from maladaptive to adaptive across transition to adulthood and beyond
What are Levinson’s normative crisis theory points?
Era of early adulthood (17-45) = idealism, dream of adult accomplishment, forming mentor relationships, developing occupation, establishing intimate relationships.
Era of middle adulthood (40-65) = come to terms with unfulfilled dream. Dream of adult accomplishment.
What aspects encompass Arnett’s Theory of Emerging Adulthood?
Exploration in love, work, identity, values (volitional years)
Development of characteristics that help individuals become self-sufficient, but committed in relationships and work.
Feels of freedom and autonomy. But also insecurity and self-doubt.
Changing world views.
What are the 4 loves in Sternberg’s Theory of Love (triangle)?
Consummate love = intimacy, passion and commitment
Romantic love = intimacy and passion
Companionate love = intimacy and commitment
Fatuous love = high passion and commitment (but lacks maturity)
According to Erikson, true intimacy is only possible when both partners have resolved their own identity crisis. I.e. have a strong sense of self and self in the world.
Describe some changes in Early adulthood and work
Transition from work as economic activity, to work as a career/ identity
Career exploration depends on access, suitability and support
Trial commitment & adjustment to job
Young men see work as more central than young women
What do we see in young adults and high in work centrality?
perceives themselves as more superior
report having career/life vision
willing to delay marriage
less likely to job surf
equally as likely to report goal instability
What do we see in early career satisfaction?
Ability to use skills and have these recognised, and autonomy and control in working environment seems key to job satisfaction.
Describe some transitions of middle adulthood development.
- parenthood
- marriage and separation divorce effects
- career consolidation
- work/ life balance
According to Super’s Theory, how is career in middle adulthood described (phases)?
- Establishment phase.
- Maintenance phase
- Decline or disengagement.
