Define selective optimization with compensation and identify how this theory relates to intelligence during adulthood. Give two examples of selective optimization with compensation.

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The Answer is Paul and Margret Baltes developed the theory of selective optimization with compensation to explain the way in which people maintain a balance in their lives by looking for the best way to compensate for physical and cognitive losses and to become more proficient in activities they do well. Such choices are critical, since every ability can be enhanced or diminished, depending on how, when, and why a person uses it. As such, selective optimization means that each person selects certain aspects of his or her intelligence to optimize and neglects the rest. If those aspects that are ignored happen to be the ones measured by IQ tests, then intelligence scores will fall, even if a person's selection results in improvement (optimization) in other areas of intellect. Examples of selective optimization with compensation include 1) using reading glasses, 2) enlarging the font on a computer screen, 3) wearing hearing aids, and 4) reducing multitasking. Sometimes older adults 5) write everything down-using their own shorthand and symbols-to compensate for their failing memory.

Define Selective Optimization with Compensation and Identify How This Theory