History
Background of Theory
Early Adulthood
Middle Adulthood
Late Adulthood/Extra Questions
100

Levinson made contributions to what area of psychology?

positive adult development

100

What are the three stages of adulthood?

Early Adulthood, Middle Adulthood, and Late Adulthood

100

What occurs during the early adulthood transition? (hint: ages 17-22)

the transition from dependence to independence; making first major adult choices (e.g., leaving home/family; moving out, going to college, entering the workforce) 

100

What happens during the Midlife Transition? 

reevaluating previous commitments; making dramatic changes if necessary (e.g., divorce or career change); giving expression to previously ignored talents or aspirations; feeling a sense of urgency about life and its meaning 

100
What happens during the Late Adulthood Transition?

concluding efforts of middle adulthood (e.g., reflecting on life and decisions made); preparing for the next era to come 

200
Who was the psychologist that Levinson worked with and was inspired by?  

Erikson

200

What population did Levinson base his theory on? (Be specific!) 

American men between the ages of 35 and 45

200

What is the name of the stage where adults begin to commit to their occupation, determine their life goals, and find intimate relationships? 

Entering the Adulthood World transition (ages 22-28) 

200

What is the transition called where adults are thinking about retirement?

Age 50 Transition

200
What are the critiques of Levinson's theory?

small sample size; cohort effect; based on findings from men; lack of cultural considerations

300

What are the two books that Levinson is most known for? 

The Seasons of a Man's Life and The Seasons of a Woman's Life

300
What are individuals called when they first enter a stage of life? 

Novices

300

What happens during the Age 30 Transition? 

Reevaluating previous choices made; making modifications and changing attitudes toward love and work (e.g., thinking about marriage and having children) 
300

What transition involves fulfillment and adults believing they are a value to themselves and society?

Culmination of Middle Adulthood 

300
How many participants were in Levinson's study?

40

400

What two universities did Levinson work at?

Harvard and Yale

400

According to Levinson, what is adulthood about? (hint: "dream") 

Making plans, putting in the effort, and reevaluating to reach a "dream"  

400

What is the name of the stage where individuals reinvest in their work and family commitments (e.g., become a parent or take on more responsibilities)? 

Settling Down transitions (ages 33-40)

400

At what transition might a crisis occur?

Midlife Transition

400

What is the age range across Levinson's stages? 

17 to 65

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