DVP - Adulthood and Aging Lesson

Learning Targets:

  • Characterize the development of decisions related to intimacy as people mature.
  • Predict the physical and cognitive changes that emerge through the lifespan, including steps that can be taken to maximize function. 
  • Identify the key researchers in adulthood and aging. 

AP psychology course and exam description, effective fall 2020. (n.d.). https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-psychology-course-and-exam-description.pdf

Adult Social Development: Erik Erikson

Image of Erik Erikson Psychologist Erik Erikson was interested in how adolescents achieved an identity (A person's definition of him or herself, including the values, beliefs, and ideals that guide an individual's behavior.). According to Erikson, during adolescence, there are several self-concepts that must be integrated to answer the question, "Who am I?" Erikson did not only study adolescents. He proposed a theory of Psychosocial Stages of Development that covers the life span. Each stage consists of a psychosocial conflict that can either be resolved positively or negatively. Relationships are key to resolution.

Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development

Learn more about Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development in the presentation below.

Physical and Cognitive Changes

Both cognitive and physical changes occur during adulthood. Some cognitive abilities, such as working memory and processing speed, decline with age, while others, such as semantic knowledge, remain stable or even improve. There are also physical changes that can occur in adulthood, such as a decrease in muscle mass and bone density that increases the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis and sarcopenia.

As an adult, it is important to engage in activities that challenge the brain, such as learning a new language or musical instrument and exercising regularly. In addition, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can help prevent chronic conditions. Keeping strong social connections and engaging in social activities may enhance cognitive health and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross: Stages of Dying

Psychiatrist Elizabeth Kubler-Ross authored a book called On Death and Dying in which, she describes the five stages we all go through when someone we love dies. How we deal with the process of death depends on our cultural attitudes, the care we receive, efforts to quicken or slow the process, mourning customs, and the role of the family.

5 Stages of Dying: 1. Denial 2. Anger 3. Bargaining 4. Depression 5. Acceptance

[CC BY 4.0] UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED | IMAGES: LICENSED AND USED ACCORDING TO TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION