Social-Emotional Development in Late Adulthood

Erikson’s Theory Ego integrity vs. despair involves coming to terms with one’s life. Ego integrity –Feel whole, complete, and satisfied with their achievements –Adapted skills to deal with triumphs and disappointments –Capacity to view one’s life in the larger context

Erikson’s Theory Despair –feelings that one made many wrong decisions, but time is too short to change –Difficult to accept death is near Overwhelmed by bitterness, defeat, hopelessness –Feelings expressed as anger and contempt disguised as contempt for self

Reminiscence and Life Review Reminiscence- telling stories about past people and events & associated thoughts and feelings Why? Does it matter? –Promotes positive emotionality and is adaptive Life Review- Form of reminiscence but contemplates meaning of events in order to achieve a greater self understanding

Relationships in Late Adulthood

Marriage 1 in 4 (or 5) in N. America survives for 50 years. Perceptions of fairness increase as men participate more in household tasks Engage in more joint leisure activities Greater emotional understanding leads to more positive interactions Video

Divorce and Remarriage Divorce in late adulthood is rare Though, the divorce rate is rising –New generations accept marital breakup –rates are rising for second and subsequent marriages More personal failure- difficult to separate from identity of spouse Self-criticism heightens guilt and depression –Self-worth is based on past rather than future accomplishments

Never Married, Childless, Older Adults Only about 5% Most develop alternative meaningful relationships (friends and family members) Women in this category report life sat. equal to married elders and greater than divorcees and widowed –Inconsistent for men