New advances in neurobiology are revealing that brain development and the learning it enables are directly dependent on social-emotional experience. Growing bodies of research reveal the importance of socially triggered epigenetic contributions to brain development and brain network configuration, with implications for social-emotional…

A study with n = 55 younger (18-33 years, M = 23.67) and n = 58 older (61-85 years, M = 71.44) adults investigated age-related differences in social approach and avoidance motivation and their consequences for the experience of social interactions. Results confirmed the hypothesis that a predominant habitual approach motivation in younger adults…

The developmental exchange is a central feature of social development, interpersonal dynamics, situated learning, and personal transformation. It is the enabling process in Guided Autobiography (GAB) settings that promotes the achievement of personal goals and group accomplishments. Nevertheless, these exchanges are embedded in the GAB structures…

The current study, using a factor level analysis approach, provides evidence of the validity of the Social Emotional Development Instrument (SED-I) for students in higher education. Although there are a multitude of models and measures that borrow from the premise of emotional intelligence (EI), very few current instruments focus exclusively on a…

Service learning is one of the most pervasive education innovations of the past generation and has demonstrated much success in connecting schooling with community service. Service learning is designed to be integrated into, and enhance, the academic curriculum. It is believed, and there is growing evidence to show, that participation in service…

We are delighted to welcome you to the International Psychological Applications Conference and Trends (InPACT) 2017, taking place in Budapest, Hungary, from 29 of April to 1 of May, 2017. Modern psychology offers a large range of scientific fields where it can be applied. The goal of understanding individuals and groups (mental functions and…

An experiment in home improvement shows important gains for socially deprived students. (GB)

Adult play develops curiosity and self-determination, builds knowledge of self and social relationships, builds self-esteem and a sense of personal power, develops powers of concentration, provides foundations for success and competence, and helps one value differences. (AC)

Article gives a documented history and analysis of adult basic education in the United States, complete with statistical tables on the educationally disadvantaged population and eligibles and enrollments in federally supported adult education programs. (GB)

Reconceptualizes Kohlberg's theory and research on moral stages in the light of recent criticisms. A proposed revision describes moral development in adulthood as existential rather than Piagetian and restricts moral judgment in the standard stage sense to childhood and adolescence. (Author/SS)

Argues that adult education must be concerned with coordination of adult development and social development. Suggests that the functions of adult education are adjustment to social needs, economic growth, enriched intellectual content, and enhancement of individualization. (SK)

Describes a study conducted during the summer of 1982 in order to examine the personal, social, and general intellectual growth perceived by older students participating in Elderhostel programs. Discusses 12 growth themes that emerged after a theme analysis was conducted on the data. Results of the study indicated support for liberal education for…

Argues that an understanding of the dynamics of life transitions is crucial to effective adult education programs. Examines the "stage/phase" theory of transitions, maintaining that transitions occur in predictable sequences, and the "life event" theory, which views transitions as the result of social processes. (22 citations) (MAB)

This paper describes a tentative model to assist in conceptualization of the dynamics of adult social-cognitive development based on Piaget's and Riegel's thought, gerontological studies, and dialectical theory. The proposed model possesses several qualities: (1) it derives from the concept of intelligence as an adaptive biological entity; (2) it…

The authors construct a model of psychosocial maturity which specifies measurable attitudes and dispositions in personal and social growth for secondary school students. Through integrating sociological and psychological views, the model outlines the following general dimensions of maturity relevant in all societies: (a) the capacity to function…