Psychosocial Changes In Adulthood Essay

Abstract
This report discusses the statement: Adulthood is probably the most balanced and free of changes stage of human development. To evaluate change in adulthood I will look at how Erikson and Levinson’s theories explore psychosocial changes in adulthood, how social and emotional development proceeds in adults and the physical changes which occur as we age. It is concluded that adulthood is a period of frequent profound change and is not the most balanced and free of change in human development.
Introduction
Studies on lifespan developmental psychology focus on how behaviour changes and remains consistent throughout the course of life. (Baltes, 1987) Adult development focuses on early, middle and late adulthood. There is a general misconception

This is also when decline in the bodily functions begins (Travers and Dacey, 1996). According to Berk (2007), apects such as the skin, cadiovascular, respiratory, muscular and immune systems gradually decline as one gets older. Degeneration of sensory organs and the nervous system degeneration is less gradual and accelerates in middle age. In ‘Adult Development & Aging’ Susan Krauss Whitbourne (2001) highlights that physical decline can result in decreased sense of ability in the elderly (as cited in Hewstone et al., 2005, p. 216.) Numerous physical illnesses and psychological diorders such as emphysema and dimentia are linked to adulthood as a result of physical decline.(Berk,

Erikson emphasises that the individual experiences significant psychosocial and personal change at each stage of life until death. Additionally, Levinson’s theory observes adulthood as a continual process of re-evaluation and change. Social and emotional features of adulthood are significant contributors to instability due to changing roles and emerging of life events. Continual challenges are guaranteed because the length of adulthood has endless potential for new experiences. This relates to Erikson’s notion that identity evolves throughout the lifespan due to experiences. Role loss can take the form of divorce or a child leaving home. Such changes have varied psychological implications depending social support and individual resilience. The discovery that adults have minimal change in personality is highly plausible. The aforementioned five personality traits would be developed in childhood and adolescence. However the evidence of minor changes in neuroticism and agreeableness seems to translate to the sociocultural view of maturity. One can perceive the significance of physical decline and illness in adulthood is high due to the realisation of mortality in this latter stage of life. Physical changes ranging from menopause to dementia have serious psychosocial implications relating to relationships and self-esteem.
Conclusion
In summary, adulthood cannot be categorized as balanced and free of changes as it is comprised