GROUP EIGHT_HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT COU1323

TOPIC: MIDDLE ADULTHOOD DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED CHALLENGES

PARTICIPANTS:
JULIET SANAU BCOU/26219/0/23
DORCAS WANGARI BCOU/26119/0/23
PATRICK MUTUA BCOU/25997/0/23

Middle adulthood typically spans from around 40 to 65 years of age, although definitions can
vary. This stage is marked by various physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes as
individuals navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with this period of life. Here are
some key aspects of middle adulthood development and related challenges:

EARLY AND LATE MIDDLE ADULTHOOD DEVELOPMENT

ADULTHOOD:
This is a period between adolescent and old age.
*Early adulthood (20-39 years)
*Middle adulthood (40- 65 years)
*Late adulthood (65-and older age)
Early adulthood begins in late teens, early 20s and last through the 30s.
Early adulthood is the time the following;
>establishing personal and economic independence
> developing career
>identifying exploration, especially in love, and work.
>selecting a mate.
>Learning to live with someone in an intimate way.
>Starting a family.
 >Rearing children.
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT in early adulthood
_Piaget believed that formal operational stage age 11-15 is the highest stage of thinking. Adult
gain knowledge but ways of thinking are the same of that adolescent.
_Thinking in early adulthood becomes more realistic and pragmatic.
PSYCHOSOCIAL DEVELOPMENT early adulthood
_During early adulthood an individual enters Erickson’s intimacy versus isolation stage.ie
developmental task of forming intimate relationships with others or becoming socially isolated.
_independence; Separation from family of origin.
_Learn to function without using your parents as a major source of income, comfort, security,
and direction.

MIDDLE ADULTHOOD DEVELOPMENT

*This is a period from 40 years to about 60.
*Middle adulthood is the time of expanding personal and social involvement and responsibility.
*It is time of assisting the next generation in becoming competent and mature individual.
*Time of reaching and maintaining satisfaction in a career.
*A time to decline of physical skills
*Time of balancing work and relationship.
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
>Female experience bone loss early as age 35. Men may not until age of 65 of age.
>Muscle strength may begin to decline
> Hair begins to turn grey and thin wrinkles appears in the skin.
>Chronic health problems such hypertension, heart diseases and diabetes may surface.
>Sensory effect of aging.
>Decline in vision and hearing gradually.
>The female climacteric and menopause starting about age 45.
Physical
Men still produce sperm and father children through middle age.
Men have higher mortality rates than women.
Symptoms are the problems with urination.
Accident because of decrease in visual acuity.
COGNITION IN MIDDLE ADULTHOOD
*Some intellectual decline but others increase
*Acquires store of information, skills strategies increase.
*Ability to deal with new situations begins to decline.
PSYCHOSOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN middle adulthood
*Generativity versus Stagnation by Erickson’s seventh stage, in which individual leaves a legacy
of themselves to the next generation. (Generativity)

LATE ADULTHOOD:
A period that begins in the 60s and last until death.
*It is period of adjusting to retirement,
*It is time to decreasing strength and health.
*Time of new social roles and reviewing one’s life.
Physical changes
>The blood vessels shrink.

>The reduction in the capacity of the heart to pump blood throughout the circulation

system.

> Produce less digestion juice

>Wrinkles and age spot become more noticeable, ski loses its elasticity and collagen.

> Yellowing of the teeth.

>Sleep has more wakeful periods, with more time spent lying on the bed, more tiredness

in the morning

Cognitive development
>When speed of processing is involved, older adults do more poorly than younger adulthood.
> Older do more poorly in most areas of memory.
>In wisdom (expert knowledge about aspect of life.) may increase with age.
>Attention; it is less effectively older adult attention.
>Decline in brain and NS functioning.

Psychosocial Development:
*It includes achieving what Erickson called Ego Integrity.
*The feeling that one’s life has been Meaningful or Despair -Feelings of regrets or bitterness
about past mistakes, missed opportunities or bad decision; A sense of disappointment in life.

THEORETICAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO MIDDLE ADULTHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Early and late middle adulthood development are complex and multifaceted, drawing on various
psychological theories to explain the changes individuals undergo during these stages;
Erikson's Psychosocial Development Theory
Early Middle Adulthood (30s to 50s) - According to Erikson, this stage is marked by the conflict
of "Generativity vs. Stagnation." Individuals strive to contribute to society, either through career
accomplishments or raising a family. Success leads to a sense of purpose, while failure may
result in feelings of stagnation.
Late Middle Adulthood (50s and beyond) - The conflict shifts to "Integrity vs. Despair."
Individuals reflect on their lives and accomplishments. Achieving integrity involves accepting
one's life as meaningful, while despair may arise if one feels a lack of fulfillment.
Levinson's Seasons of Life Theory
Levinson proposed a series of stages and transitions during adulthood. Early adulthood is
characterized by forming a life structure, and middle adulthood involves a midlife transition,
where individuals reassess life goals and values. This can lead to a period of questioning and
potential restructuring.
Midlife Crisis -Levinson's theory suggests that individuals undergo a midlife transition or "crisis"
during middle adulthood. This period involves reevaluating life goals and values, potentially
leading to psychological upheaval. Not everyone experiences a crisis, but for some, it can prompt
significant life changes.
Cognitive Development Theories (e.g., Piaget, Vygotsky)
Cognitive development continues through adulthood. In early middle adulthood, cognitive
abilities may peak, allowing for effective problem-solving and decision-making. However, later
in life, some cognitive decline may occur, with working memory and processing speed showing
subtle changes.
Coping and Stress Theories (e.g., Lazarus and Folkman)
Early middle adulthood often involves managing multiple responsibilities, such as work and
family. Coping mechanisms play a crucial role in dealing with stressors. Later in life, individuals
may develop adaptive coping strategies to navigate challenges like health issues or loss of loved
ones.
Social and Emotional Selectivity Theory (Carstensen)
Carstensen's theory suggests that as individuals’ age, they become more selective in their social
interactions, prioritizing emotionally meaningful relationships. In early middle adulthood, social
networks may expand for career and family reasons, while in late middle adulthood, the focus
may shift to deeper, quality connections.
Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (Carstensen)
This theory proposes that as individuals’ age, they become more focused on achieving emotional
satisfaction and maintaining positive emotions. In early middle adulthood, goals may be future-
oriented, while in late middle adulthood, individuals prioritize emotionally rewarding
experiences.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Middle adulthood often aligns with the pursuit of self-actualization in Maslow's hierarchy.
Individuals may seek personal growth, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose beyond basic needs.
This can manifest in career advancement, creative pursuits, or community involvement.
In summary, these psychological theories provide valuable frameworks to understand the
dynamic processes of early and late middle adulthood development, encompassing social,
emotional, cognitive, and existential dimensions. Individual experiences may vary, but these
theories offer insights into the common challenges and opportunities associated with these life
stages.
CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED IN MIDDLE ADULTHOOD
Certainly, middle adulthood (approximately ages 40 to 65) is a complex period with various
challenges that can affect individuals both personally and professionally. Here are in-depth
discussions along with examples of challenges experienced in middle adulthood development:
Career and Work Challenges
Individuals may face mid-career challenges, such as job dissatisfaction, burnout, or navigating a
rapidly changing job market. Example, a person in middle adulthood may realize they are no
longer passionate about their career, prompting the need for retraining or considering a career
change.
Empty Nest Syndrome - As children leave home, parents may experience a sense of loss,
emptiness, and identity reevaluation. For instance, a couple, accustomed to a busy household,
may struggle with feelings of loneliness and a need to redefine their relationship dynamics.
Marital and Relationship Adjustments - Marital satisfaction can face challenges due to
shifting priorities, communication breakdowns, or unmet expectations. For instance, Couples
may find it challenging to adapt to an "empty nest" and need to rediscover shared interests or
redefine their connection.
Midlife Crisis - Some individuals experience a midlife crisis. The midlife crisis may involve
existential questioning, impulsivity in decision-making, and a pursuit of new experiences or
relationships to regain a sense of purpose. Example, a person might impulsively change careers,
pursue adventurous activities, or seek new relationships in an attempt to find renewed purpose.
Health Concerns - Middle adulthood often brings awareness of aging and potential health
issues, requiring adjustments in lifestyle and self-care. Example, a person may need to adopt
healthier habits, manage chronic conditions, or cope with the emotional impact of physical
changes.
Financial Pressures - Balancing immediate financial needs with long-term goals, such as saving
for retirement and supporting children's education, can be stressful. Example, a middle-aged
couple might face challenges in saving for their children's college tuition while also planning for
their own retirement.
Caring for Aging Parents - The "sandwich generation" may find it demanding to provide care
for aging parents while supporting their own children. Example, a person may navigate the
emotional and logistical challenges of coordinating care for an elderly parent while fulfilling
other responsibilities.
Identity and Existential Questions - Middle adulthood often prompts individuals to reflect on
life's purpose, accomplishments, and personal identity. Example, someone might grapple with
existential questions, questioning the meaning of life, their impact on the world, and their legacy.
Technology and Social Changes - Keeping up with technological advancements and societal
changes can be challenging for some individuals. Example, a person may find it difficult to adapt
to social media trends or navigate evolving communication methods, potentially impacting
personal and professional relationships.
Community and Social Isolation - Some individuals may face challenges in maintaining social
connections, leading to feelings of isolation. Example, a person may experience a shrinking
social circle due to factors like relocation, work commitments, or changes in interests.
These challenges are interconnected and can significantly impact an individual's psychological
well-being and overall life satisfaction during middle adulthood. Coping strategies, resilience,
and a supportive social network are crucial in navigating these complex challenges.
In conclusion, navigating these challenges requires resilience, adaptability, and support from
social networks, as well as a proactive approach to maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Seeking professional guidance, engaging in healthy lifestyle practices, and cultivating
meaningful relationships can contribute to a fulfilling middle adulthood experience.

REFERENCES

https://web2.aabu.edu.jo7 course-files>lec notes pdf

Willis, Sherry L, and Mike Martin. Middle Adulthood : A Lifespan Perspective. Thousand Oaks,

Calif., Sage Publications, 2005.

Lachman, Margie E, and Inc Netlibrary. Handbook of Midlife Development. New York, Wiley,

2001.

Pulkkinen, Lea, and Katja Kokko. Human Development from Middle Childhood to Middle

Adulthood : Growing up to Be Middle-Aged. London, Routledge, Taylor & Francis

Group, 2017.