From Young Adulthood Through the Middle Ages

Abstract

Periods of life have underpinnings in the universals of biology and social life, but they are conceptualized differently in different cultures and historical periods (Menon, 2001 ; Shweder, 1998). Middle age is not recognized at all in some societies, but in ours estimates often stretch from age 35 or 40 to age 60 or 65-a span of 20 to 30 years. The question of whether or not personality should be expected to change or develop within this period has received little attention. This chapter begins with a brief and selective review of two background topics: (a) relations between age, roles, status, and personality, and (b) personality change in adulthood. Then after a brief consideration of middle age as a whole, the issue of making differentiations within this long expanse is discussed. Three phases of middle age are proposed, then longitudinal evidence supporting the conception along with divergent findings are presented. Finally, there are suggestions for further research. BRIEF REVIEW OF RESEARCH AREAS Relations between Age, Roles, Status, and Personality

Self and Identity across the Life Span

“…Goals indicative of prosocial societal engagement-generativity, civic involvement, improving one's community-become more pronounced as people move into midlife and remain relatively strong for many adults into their retirement years (McAdams, de St. Aubin, & Logan, 1993;Peterson & Duncan, 2007;Rossi, 2001). Goals in early adulthood often focus on expanding the self and gaining new information, whereas goals in late adulthood may focus more on the emotional quality of ongoing relationships (Carstensen, Pasupathi, Mayr, & Nesselroade, 2000;Helson, Soto, & Cate, 2006).…”

Personality trait development in midlife: exploring the impact of psychological turning points

“…Given the centrality of midlife within the lifespan, surprisingly little is known about personality trait development within this unique period of life (Helson et al 2006). One reason for this is that, traditionally, middle adulthood has been considered as a time of relative stability in many realms of life.…”

Conciliación de la Vida Laboral y Familiar en Mujeres en Formación Ocupacional

“…-De 35 a 44 años: En este rango de edad se manifiestan las consecuencias de las dificultades que comienzan en la etapa anterior, y se hacen más patentes nuevos problemas para la conciliación de la vida familiar y laboral. El inicio de este período supone el abandono de la juventud y el inicio de la madurez (Helson, Soto & Cate, 2006). -De 45 a 65 años: a partir de los 45 años, las personas forman parte de un colectivo prioritario para las políticas de empleo, hasta llegar a la edad de jubilación (Tobes Portillo, 2002).…”