A cross-sectional study of educated men and women showed that cautiousness, as measured by perceived problem-solving ability, does not increase with age. Sex differences were nonsignificant. The results are discussed in terms of R. Schultz and J. Heckhausen's Life Span Model of Successful Aging. (Contains 28 references and 1 table.) (Author)

A developmental theory of adult intelligence is proposed called PPIK. The PPIK theory integrates intelligence as process, personality, interests, and intelligence-as-knowledge. Data from the study of knowledge structures are examined in the context of the theory and in relation to measures of content abilities. (SLD)

The article reviews the literature on two questions: what is the normal course of creative development, and do peak periods exist during which people are most open to efforts to foster creative abilities. Six specific periods are identified as peak periods of creative growth. (DB)

Reviews selected articles from medical and psychological literature that focus on special issues for diabetic woman during preadolescence, adolescence, and adulthood. Makes recommendations for behavioral interventions with diabetic women in regard to sick role adjustment, peer conformity pressures, eating disorders, sexuality, and pregnancy.…

Presented series of biographical passages to young and older adults to examine how semantic memory store of previously acquired knowledge affects ability to retain textual information. Older adults had difficulty in delayed, but not in immediate, recognition condition. Suggests that as older adults' episodic memory deteriorated, they could not…

The adult learner can profit from instruction and novel experience. A number of educational delivery models were discussed. Aids in learning coupled with teaching strategies were suggested for inclusion in the design of learning environments. The emphasis is on maximization of capacity through recognition of individual differences. (Author/RD)

Over the last 20 years, the percentage of older students on college campuses has increased dramatically. Because developmental needs, issues, and stressors for adults differ from those of younger students, the college environment must be reconsidered to respond to adult students. Adult learners tend to be achievement oriented, highly motivated,…

Attribution theory and gerontology would be enriched by the application of a life-span approach to attribution, involving increased attention to the age of the stimulus person and developmental factors associated with self-attribution. In studies on achievement attributions about older people, chronological age appears to be a more salient cue for…

Evidence on the impact of noncognitive factors on the cognitive performance of young and older adults is reviewed. Cohort-associated modifiers, motive states, task and measurement factors, and environmental effects are related and account for age differences in cognitive performance. Areas of research pertinent to educational psychologists are…

Personal intent and discourse considerations play an important role in understanding the nature of a conversation between a youth and an elderly person. Each participant makes assumptions about the listener's knowledge and ability to communicate effectively. The way a speaker reacts to the other participant depends upon the speaker's own…

Career development literature suggests that faculty evaluate and redefine their life structures throughout their careers. As a result, there are age group differences in teaching interests, performance, and overall personal investment in their colleges. Longitudinal research should begin to collect data to differentiate between developmental and…

Reviews the findings of Lehman's study of age and outstanding occupational achievement along with the explanations of why major contributions most likely occur in young adulthood. Proposes an alternative explanation based on the central developmental tasks facing individuals in young adulthood and middle age. (JAC)

Summarizes conclusions from research on sex and age differences in moral reasoning. Finds men focused on rights and women on responsiblity, and older adults better able to articulate their moral positions though no longer engaged in moral growth. Suggests changes in the content and pedagogy of moral education. (DMM)

Theories of life cycle phases, adult development, and adult motivation to learn provide a basis for planning and developing campus activities to attract the attention of this market. (MSE)

This chapter serves as a review of the nature of transitions confronting adult learners and points to applications and strategies for anticipating coming changes.