Adulting 101
This life stage (18–29) is characterized by identity exploration and instability.
What is emerging adulthood?
This Erikson stage defines early adulthood.
What is intimacy vs. isolation?
This stage typically begins at age 65.
What is older adulthood?
This Erikson stage focuses on contributing to the next generation.
What is generativity vs. stagnation?
This refers to the neurological definition of death.
What is brain death?
Peak physical performance typically occurs during this age range.
What is 19–26?
This model of love includes passion, intimacy, and commitment.
What is Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love?
This term refers to age-related loss of muscle mass.
What is sarcopenia?
This final stage involves reflecting on life with satisfaction or regret.
What is integrity vs. despair?
This legal process allows individuals to end life with medical assistance.
What is MAID?
This type of thinking goes beyond Piaget and includes more flexible, practical reasoning.
What is postformal thought?
This attachment style is characterized by trust and comfort with closeness.
What is secure attachment?
This type of intelligence increases with age due to experience and knowledge.
What is crystallized intelligence?
This theory suggests older adults focus on emotionally meaningful relationships.
What is socioemotional selectivity theory?
This theory outlines five stages of dying.
What is Kübler-Ross’s model?
Name two markers of adulthood in modern society.
What are: independent living, full-time work, completing education, relationships, or parenting?
This living arrangement involves partners living together without marriage.
What is cohabitation?
Name one theory of aging that explains biological decline.
What is cellular clock theory OR free-radical theory?
This concept explains balancing losses and gains in aging (selection, optimization, compensation).
What is SOC theory?
Name two stages of the five stages of dying.
Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance
Explain why the path to adulthood is no longer linear and how this impacts identity development.
Answer should reference delayed marriage, extended education, and exploration.
Compare romantic love and affectionate love and explain how relationships typically evolve over time.
Romantic = passion-heavy early; affectionate = deeper, long-term emotional bond.
Explain how socioeconomic status impacts healthy aging outcomes.
Income/education → better health access, knowledge, and outcomes.
Critically evaluate the idea of a “midlife crisis.” Is it inevitable?
Not universal; often a period of reflection rather than crisis.
Explain how cultural perspectives shape experiences of death and grieving.
Varies widely; not all cultures view death as an end, mourning practices differ.