Presents triple-helix model of adult development which incorporates three major roles: family, work, and self, each powered by drive for self-esteem. Asserts that this approach accommodates wide range of possible patterns and varied timing of life events relative to career options, family and relationship choices, and emphasis on self-development.…

Presents critical reading of "A Theory of Knowledge" by Joyce Carol Oates, which appears in recently published collection of stories about aging. Analyzes story in terms of two ideas in current adult developmental theory, the idea of personal narrative as developed by Cohler, and the idea of generativity as developed by Erikson, Kotre,…

Creates framework through which everyday experiences of psychological time might be interpreted. Elaborates on Raynor's concept of time-linked sources of self-identity to include intergenerational-linked and timeless sources of self-identity in quest to feel good about oneself. Includes case examples of how eight elderly persons viewed their…

Describes conceptualization of compensation that applies to life span cognitive development, in general, and aging of prose processing skills, in particular. Presents model of forms and processes of compensation that directs attention to developing dynamics of cognitive skills and compensatory mechanisms. Outlines three main approaches to research…

Considers question of shifts in artistic and literary style from lifespan developmental perspective, focusing on change during midlife. Using Samuel Beckett as example, demonstrates relationship between his abrupt shift to playwriting and his entrance into midlife. Notes that theories of lifespan personality development suggest parallels between…

Examines a variety of personal qualities usually found in creative people. Discusses many theories of creativity representing a variety of intellectual traditions, most of which predict aging decrements of some sort. Suggests that the creativity decline may vary, or that creativity may change rather than decline with age, with differing stylistic…

Focuses on the relationship between social environment and the older individual. By utilizing the Social Breakdown Syndrome a cycle of events is defined by the Geriatric Sexuality Breakdown Syndrome, in which an older individual is initially predisposed to diminished sexual activity to the end point of self-identification as nonsexual. (Author)

Investigates the existence of age-related life stages and the presumed evolution of attitudes and perceptions in accordance with passages through these successive developmental plateaus. Age is minimally related to attitudes in these areas while social class, race and sex emerge as predictors. (Author)