CONTRAST TWO THEORIES OR PERSPECTIVES FROM LATE STAGE ADULT DEVELOPMENT
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based on the information covered in chapter 5 contrast two theories or perspectives from late stage development
Late stage adult development encompasses various theories and perspectives that describe and explain the psychological and cognitive changes that individuals typically experience during this phase of life. Two prominent theories or perspectives within late stage adult development are Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development and the socioemotional selectivity theory.
1. Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development:
Erikson proposed eight stages of psychosocial development, with each stage representing a specific conflict or challenge that individuals must navigate to achieve successful development. In late stage adult development, the relevant stage is called "ego integrity vs. despair." This stage typically occurs during old age, and the primary conflict revolves around reflecting on one's life and coming to terms with one's choices and accomplishments.
Ego integrity represents a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, where individuals develop wisdom and accept their life path. They feel a sense of wholeness and are at peace with their past. On the other hand, individuals who fail to resolve this conflict may experience despair, regret, and bitterness. They may feel a sense of unfulfilled goals and a deep sense of disappointment with their life.
To contrast this theory with another perspective, we can look at the socioemotional selectivity theory.
2. Socioemotional Selectivity Theory:
The socioemotional selectivity theory, proposed by Laura Carstensen, suggests that as individuals age, their motivations and goals shift from future-oriented to more present-focused. This theory posits that older adults prioritize emotional well-being and social relationships over other needs and goals. Time becomes increasingly limited, motivating individuals to invest more in emotionally meaningful relationships and activities.
Unlike Erikson's theory, which emphasizes the resolution of conflicts throughout different life stages, the socioemotional selectivity theory focuses on the adaptive strategies older adults adopt to maximize emotional well-being in the limited time they have. It suggests that older individuals deliberately choose to engage in activities and relationships that bring them joy and satisfaction rather than focusing on future-oriented goals.
To contrast these two perspectives, we can highlight that Erikson's theory focuses on the resolution of psychosocial conflicts across the lifespan, including late stage adult development, while the socioemotional selectivity theory centers on the changes in motivation and goals as individuals age. While Erikson's theory suggests that successful resolution of conflicts leads to a sense of ego integrity, the socioemotional selectivity theory highlights the proactive choices individuals make to prioritize emotional well-being and social connections in late adulthood.