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You have found yourself stuck in the middle of an argument between your two best friends. One says that people never change; they're the same way they are at 50 as they were at 15. The other says that people are constantly changing—look at all the famous musicians who have moved on from folk to rock'n'roll to rhythm & blues to country—even Pat Boone went from bobby sox music to heavy metal. Based on what you have learned from this chapter, how would you mediate this disagreement? |
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Your cousin is about to turn 40 and has confided his concern about going through a midlife crisis. He is also concerned that his wife, who will be 40 next year, will experience a similar crisis. He wants to know about the research on midlife crises. In particular, he is looking for ways to avoid experiencing this dreaded event. What will you tell him? |
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Research in higher education has shown a consistent increase in the number of non-traditional students choosing to either attend college for the first time or to go back to college for a second degree in anticipation of a mid-life career change. Use Erikson's theory of psychosocial development to explain this change. How might the pursuit of a college education help an adult achieve generativity in midlife? What are other activities that an adult might engage in to help resolve this psychosocial conflict? |
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In a discussion with one of your friends, she mentions that although she and her husband have been having serious marital conflicts for several years, they have made a pact to stay married until their children all graduate from high school. They believe a divorce will be less traumatic on the children if they are older; in addition, they feel that it will be a smoother transition for them. Apply your knowledge on adult development to respond to your friend's comments. What can you tell her about the research concerning divorce in middle age? |
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Your roommate, Tessa, and her mother have always had a very close relationship. Throughout college, they have talked on the phone several times a day and typically see each other at least once a week (despite living over 200 miles apart). With graduation approaching, Tessa has decided to get a job in her home town and move back in with her parents. While Tessa is excited about saving money, she is a little bit concerned about how this move will impact her relationship with her parents. What advice can you give Tessa and her parents to make this a smooth transition and to ensure healthy development for both parties? |
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Your best friend, Robert, tells you that he and his wife have been having a great time rediscovering each other since their youngest child moved away to go to college. He also says that his oldest child has now asked if she can move back to their home for a "year or two" while she establishes her career and gets on her feet. He cannot decide whether to let her move in, and does not know how to establish boundaries if he lets her. Based on your reading of this chapter, what are the pros and cons Robert should be aware of, and how can he make it a good situation if he allows his daughter to move back into the house? |
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