Lifespan Perspective Overview

Chapter 10: adolescence and adulthood-

Lifespan perspective

Developmental psychologists are strongly influenced by the lifespan perspective- which states that developmental changes occur during our entire lifespan

From womb to tomb

Erikson’s Psychosocial theory Individuals pass through eight

psychosocial stages during their lifespan

Each stage is defined by conflicts that arise from ones relationship with their social environment

One must resolve these conflicts before they can move onto the next stage

Adolescence

Transitional stage of development between childhood and adulthood

Developmental stage that begins with puberty

Biologically adult but emotionally not at full maturity

13-24, cultural and social phenomenon

Puberty

stage in human lifespan when a child begins to develop secondary sex characteristics

hormones- boys testicles, girls ovaries Females- first menstrual period;

menarche

Psychology of adolescents Maturity in body leads to an interest

in sexual activity, sometimes leading to teenage pregnancy

Greater probability of drug abuse, mental problems- schizophrenia, eating disorders, depression

Search for identity, meaning of life Role models- sports players, stars,

movie and TV performers

Early Adulthood

Ages 19 -30 At prime physically, cognitive skills

becoming finalized

Havighurst: Tasks of Early Adulthood

Getting started in an occupation Selecting a mate Learning to live with a marriage partner Starting a family Rearing children Managing a home Taking on civic responsibilities Finding a congenial social group

Middle Adulthood (40-60)

Key psychological issues and themes- midlife crisis (midlife review) identity development (gender identity) Psychological well-being Parents of adolescents have come to terms

with a loss of control over their children’s lives

Empty nest

continued Parenting your parents- dealing with aging

parents Middle age grandparents often separated

by grandchildren geographically Increasing number of middle age

grandparents raising their grandchildren which can create physical, emotional, and financial strains

Later Adulthood (65 and older)

Physical changes include farsightedness, hearing loss, weakening of sense of smell

Chronic conditions; arthritis, rheumatism, heart problems, high blood pressure

Alzheimer’s Disease- dementia Death and dying, bereavement