Psychology2016

348 CHAPTER 8

diagnosis, and other life history factors make the process of dying unique and unpre-

dictable (Kastenbaum & Costa, 1977; Zlatin, 1995). The danger in holding too strictly to

a stage theory is that people may feel there is a “right” way to face death and a “wrong”

way, when in fact each person’s dying process is unique. In fact, attitudes and rituals

associated with death and the dying process vary from culture to culture, as discussed in

the Applying Psychology section at the end of this chapter.

THINKING CRITICALLY

What are your thoughts on the need for closure in dealing with someone’s death? Do you think it is

always necessary?

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young adulthood

physical middle age

development

cognitive

development

psychosocial

development

typical life concerns involve career, relationships, family, and approaching old age

from late adolescence through the 20s in developed countries, some

may experience period of emerging adulthood

Erikson’s stages (see Table 8.4)

few changes; the 20s are typically associated with peak physical and cognitive health

late adulthood

hearing and vision begin to decline; weight increase is typical; height starts to decrease

women experience menopause; men experience less dramatic change called andropause

health problems related to genetics and lifestyle when younger start to appear

cognitive skills often highest in 20s; processing and reaction time slow in

middle age but are often compensated by greater life and situational knowledge

memory issues begin in middle age, likely due to stress and information overload

mental abilities aided by active cognitive engagement

(challenging crossword puzzles, reading, etc.) and physical activity

further decline in hearing; may need hearing aids

physical strength declines

people with osteoporosis may lose up to 8 inches in height

Adulthood and Aging

(period of life from early 20s until old age and death; age of onset can vary by culture)

stages of death and dying

positive psychological (based on work of Kübler-Ross)

adjustment associated

with continued activity

and involvement

denial

anger

bargaining

depression

acceptance

theories on aging

vary focus from biological changes

to influence on external stressors

cellular clock theory

wear-and-tear theory

free radical theory

activity theory

childless

not financially independent

do not live in own home

activity theory

Concept Map L.O. 8.12, 8.13, 8.14, 8.15, 8.16

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