Question 1

Which of the following applies to middle adulthood marriages?

Accepted Answer

Middle adulthood marriages are typically less conflicted than those of young adults. By this stage, couples have had more time to work through conflicts and develop better communication skills, which can lead to a smoother marriage overall. Additionally, middle-aged adults tend to have a more realistic view of marriage and their expectations may be more in line with what their partner can realistically provide, resulting in less conflict.

Question 2

A mid-life crisis is less about responding to life events, such as the loss of a job or the death of a friend, and more about the losses due to physical changes and declines.

Accepted Answer

The answer of A mid-life crisis is less about responding...

Question 3

Psychiatrist George Vaillant proposed several amendments to Erikson's life stage theory. Vaillant suggested the inclusion of a new stage called "career consolidation." In this new stage, what does the term "career" mean?

Accepted Answer

It has a broad definition of choices as long as a social network is created that helps an individual to meet their psychosocial needs.

Question 4

Which of the following is the best example of a sandwich generation?

Accepted Answer

The best example of a sandwich generation is when individuals are taking care of both their aging parents and their own children simultaneously. Option D states that Mr. and Mrs. Ross are taking care of their grandchild and Mrs. Ross's mother, making them the best example of a sandwich generation. Options A, B, and C do not involve taking care of both aging parents and children simultaneously.

Question 5

How did Erikson characterize the developmental task of middle adulthood?

Accepted Answer

Erikson characterized the developmental task of middle adulthood as generativity versus stagnation, which involves contributing to society and making a positive impact on future generations versus feeling unproductive and uninvolved in the world around them.

Question 6

Which of the following is LEAST likely to prompt mid-life crisis?

Accepted Answer

While purchasing a new home can certainly be a significant life event, it is not typically associated with triggering a mid-life crisis in the same way as adapting to new roles, accepting mortality, or facing health limitations.

Question 7

What does the term "sandwich generation" refer to?

Accepted Answer

The term "sandwich generation" refers to middle-aged adults who provide assistance to both their children and their aging parents, as if they are sandwiched between the two generations.

Question 8

To offset any cognitive or physical declines in work performance due to aging, the selective optimization with compensation theory suggests that middle adults have their job descriptions modified to include only the duties and tasks that they remain good at.

Accepted Answer

The answer of To offset any cognitive or physical declines...

Question 9

Which of the following is most illustrative of the "skilled diplomacy" used by many middle-aged couples to maintain the stability of their relationship?

Accepted Answer

Option C shows a constructive way of dealing with problems and conflict within a marriage, where both partners are involved in the resolution process. It illustrates the compromise and negotiation that goes on when there is a conflict in a middle-aged couple's relationship. The other options either ignore conflict altogether (Option A), seek outside advice without direct communication between the partners (Option B), or involve a third party (the children) in resolving the issue (Option D), which is not ideal for the health of the relationship.

Question 10

Psychiatrist George Vaillant proposed an amendment to Erikson's life stage theory to include a new stage or psychosocial task called "career consolidation." At what stage in the lifespan does career consolidation belong?

Accepted Answer

in middle adulthood between the psychosocial goals of intimacy and generativity

Question 11

Which of the following best summarizes the conclusions of research that has attempted to confirm the existence of a mid-life crisis?

Accepted Answer

Research has found little evidence to support the existence of a mid-life crisis. The stresses and tasks of mid-life are not necessarily more overwhelming than at other ages. While some individuals may experience inner turmoil or dissatisfaction during mid-life, it is not a universal experience for all men or women. The idea of a mid-life crisis is largely a cultural stereotype rather than a scientific phenomenon.

Question 12

Research into the characteristics of the generativity stage of adult development has produced inconsistent results. However, one common agreed upon point among researchers regarding this stage is that

Accepted Answer

While characteristics of the generativity stage have produced inconsistent results in research, it is commonly agreed upon that generativity is related to the mental health of middle-aged adults.

Question 13

The pattern of adult children leaving the parental home but returning again to live with parents is a social phenomenon known as

Accepted Answer

the revolving door.

Question 14

According to research, what happens to marital satisfaction and stability at mid-life?

Accepted Answer

At mid-life, conflicts over child-rearing and financial matters typically decline, leading to an increase in marital satisfaction and stability. Research has shown that the middle years of marriage (ages 40-60) can be some of the happiest and most fulfilling times for couples.

Question 15

In Canada, approximately 50% of adult children between the ages of 20 and 34 live at home with their parents. Which statement is most accurate regarding the reasons for these living arrangements?

Accepted Answer

The statement highlights factors such as financial difficulties, unemployment, extended post-secondary schooling, and delayed marriage as the main contributing reasons for adult children living with their parents. While there may be other contributing factors, this option is the most accurate as it reflects current economic and societal trends in Canada.

Question 16

Which of the following is consistent with the expression of generativity, as described by Erikson?

Accepted Answer

Erikson's theory of psychosocial development suggests that generativity involves a concern for the next generation and a desire to help guide and mentor others. Serving as a mentor to a younger co-worker is consistent with this expression. The other options do not necessarily involve a focus on the next generation or mentoring others.

Question 17

The behaviours and characteristics expected of a person in a social position, such as mother, student, or retired person, constitute the ________ of the person filling the position.

Accepted Answer

The expected behaviours and characteristics of a person in a social position is known as the role of the person. Personalities may differ between individuals, and goals may vary depending on the person's individual aspirations. Operations are procedures or processes that are carried out in an organization or system.

Question 18

According to Erikson, what is required for the expression of generativity?

Accepted Answer

Erikson believed that caring for others and contributing to society were essential for the expression of generativity.

Question 19

George feels that he is making a valuable contribution to society by bringing up his children to the best of his ability as well as by volunteering as a Big Brother to kids in his community. George feels he has acquired

Accepted Answer

Generativity refers to the adult's desire to leave a legacy and make a positive impact on others and society. George's belief that he is contributing to society through his parenting and volunteer work exemplifies generativity. A mid-life crisis involves questioning one's accomplishments and direction in life, which is not reflected in George's actions. George's parenting role is mentioned but does not encompass his broader sense of societal contribution. Role transitions involve changes in roles or identities, which is not explicitly mentioned in the scenario.

Question 20

Which of the following is most consistent with ideas about development at mid-life?

Accepted Answer

The developmental tasks of mid-life are likely to cause a crisis when an individual's ability to cope is overwhelmed.

Quiz 16: Social and Personality Development in Middle Adulthood