DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY
FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
BS PSY (6TH – B)
 GROUP MEMBERS
Laraib 1881-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Asma Malik 1845-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Saira Ali 1650-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Aiman Munawar 1720-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Aamna Bibi 1653-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Ursh Khan 1649-FSS/BSPSY/F21

Zunaira Arshad 1721-FSS/BSPSY/F21

MIDDLE ADULTHOOD
• Physical Changes
• Social Adjustment
• Family Adjustment
• Occupational Adjustment
 INTRODUCTION:

• Middle adulthood, or midlife, refers to the period of the lifespan between

early adulthood and late adulthood.
• It ranges from ages 40 to 65, and it is characterized by a sense of freedom
and autonomy as well as self-reflection. Middle adulthood can be difficult for
people who are not sure about what they want to do with their lives.
PHYSICAL CHANGES
 PHYSICAL CHANGES:

During this stage physical changes start to occur that show that the body is ageing.
Individuals experience various physical changes:
• Muscle mass and strength: There's a gradual decline in muscle mass and strength
due to changes in hormones, decreased physical activity, and possibly poor nutrition.
• Metabolism: Metabolism slows down, making it easier to gain weight, especially
around the abdomen. This is partly due to decreased muscle mass and hormonal
changes.
• Bone density: Bone density decreases, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis,
fractures, and other bone-related issues.
 PHYSICAL CHANGES:

• Vision and Hearing: Vision changes such as presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects)
and loss of peripheral vision may occur. Additionally, there might be a decline in hearing
acuity, particularly for high-frequency.
• Cardiovascular health: Blood pressure may increase, and cholesterol levels may rise,
increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Menopause (for women): Women experience menopause, marked by the cessation of
menstruation and a decrease in estrogen production. This can lead to symptoms like hot
flashes, mood swings, and changes in bone density.
 PHYSICAL CHANGES:
• Hormonal changes (for Men): Men experience
a gradual decline in testosterone levels, which
can lead to reduced muscle mass, decreased
libido, and changes in mood and energy levels.
These changes are influenced by genetic factors,
lifestyle choices (such as diet and exercise), and
environmental factors (like exposure to
pollutants). Regular exercise, a balanced diet,
and routine health screenings can help mitigate
some of these effects and promote overall well-
being.
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SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT
SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT :
• Losing parents and experiencing associated grief: Margie Lachman (2004) provides a
comprehensive overview of the challenges facing midlife adults, including losing parents
and experiencing grief.
SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT
• Launching children into their own lives: Adults in middle adulthood face the challenge of launching
their children into their own lives.-
Adjusting to home life without children: Adults in middle adulthood also face the challenge of
adjusting to home life without children, often referred to as the empty nest.
• Dealing with adult children who return to live at home: This can be a challenge for adults in middle
adulthood, known as boomerang children in the United States.
• Becoming grandparents: Adults in middle adulthood face the challenge of becoming grandparents.-
Preparing for late adulthood: Adults in middle adulthood face the challenge of preparing for late
adulthood.
• Acting as caregivers for aging parents or spouses: Adults in middle adulthood face the challenge of
acting as caregivers for aging parents or spouses.
 SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT
 Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Development Theory

The last stage of generativity, according to Erikson,

Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood, 40-65 years)During this stage, individuals focus on
contributing to society, nurturing, and guiding future generations. They may engage in activities such as:-
i. Mentoring ii. Teaching iii. Coaching iv. Volunteering
v. Raising children or grandchildren vi. Creative pursuits

 Success in this stage leads to a sense of generativity, feeling productive and contributing to the greater
good. Failure to achieve this can result in stagnation, feeling unproductive and disconnected from others.
FAMILY ADJUSTMENT:
FAMILY ADJUSTMENT

• Family adjustment in middle adulthood is a significant phase as

individuals often experience multiple roles and transitions that
require adaptation.
• Family is most important support system.
• During this stage, adults often find themselves managing a variety
of new roles and responsibilities, which can include parenting
adolescents or young adults, caring for aging parents, and
reassessing their professional and personal lives.
FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS IN MIDLIFE
• Role Transitions: Middle adulthood often involves significant role transitions, such as
becoming grandparents, retiring from long-held careers, or pursuing new interests
and hobbies. These transitions can impact family dynamics and relationships as
individuals adjust to their changing roles.
• Caring for Aging Parents: Middle adulthood is frequently a time when individuals
may need to start caring for their aging parents. Balancing the roles of caregiver,
parent, and often continuing professional responsibilities can be challenging.
• Empty Nest Syndrome: As children leave home, middle-aged adults often
experience the "empty nest syndrome," which can lead to feelings of sadness, loss,
or loneliness. It can also be a period of renewal and increased freedom for personal
pursuits.
 FAMILY RELATIONS IN MIDLIFE

• Siblings: Siblings often become closer to each other in the second half of life than in early
adulthood. They help one another with problems with teenage children, stressful marriages
and family contacts.
• Generational Shifts: Middle-aged adults often find themselves bridging the gap between
different generations within their family, including their parents, children, and grandchildren.
Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple generations can require flexibility and
communication skills.
• Intergenerational Relationships: Strengthening bonds with both older and younger
generations can provide emotional fulfillment and support.
OCCUPATIONAL ADJUSTMENT
 CONTINUE…….

• Middle adulthood often brings significant occupational adjustments and challenges.

These changes are influenced by a variety of factors including physical health,
cognitive changes, family responsibilities, and societal trends.
• Here’s a closer look at some of the key occupational adjustments individuals might
encounter during this life stage:
i. Career Transitions: Some individuals may use middle adulthood as an opportunity
to make significant career transitions. This could involve changing industries, pursuing
further education or training, starting a new business, or shifting to a different role
within their current field.
CONTINUE……..

ii. Skills Development and Adaptation: Middle-aged adults may find it necessary to
update their skills or learn new ones to stay competitive in the workforce. This could
involve acquiring technological proficiency, enhancing leadership abilities, or gaining
knowledge in emerging fields relevant to their industry.
iii. Career Peak or Plateau: Many individuals in middle adulthood reach their career
peak in terms of experience, authority, and salary. However, some may experience a
plateau, where there is little or no growth in their job position or salary, which can
lead to feelings of stagnation or dissatisfaction.
CONTINUE……...

iv. Leadership Roles: With years of experience, middle-aged adults are often
expected to take on more leadership roles or mentor younger colleagues. This can
be a fulfilling opportunity to influence the next generation and shape their
organization’s future.
v. Shift in Priorities: As people age, their work-life priorities might shift. They might
seek a better balance between personal life and career, prioritize health or family
over professional achievements, or seek roles that are less demanding or stressful.
GERONTOLOGY:
o PHYSICAL CHANGES

o THE ELDERLY AND DEATH

o CHALLENGES FACED BY ELDERLY & POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

DEFINITION:

• Gerontology is the scientific study of

the processes and problem of aging
from all aspects: biological , clinical ,
psychological , sociological , legal,
economic , and political.
INTRODUCTION :

 Gerontology is study of old age and the process of aging.

 The field of gerontology is quite broad and involve many different
aspect related to aging . It can focus on physical changes , mental
changes , as well as social changes associated with aging .
 Moreover researchers and practitioners in gerontology are
knowledgeable in several fields like social sciences , physiology ,
psychology , public health ,policy .
TYPES OF GERONTOLOGY :

• Two main types of gerontology :

1. Social gerontology : Deals with social
and emotional aspects of aging .
2. Biogerontology : Deals with physical
biological aspect .
PHYSICAL CHANGES :

 Researchers have indicated that

aging can affect all of your organ
systems over time. This includes
your cardiovascular system,
nervous system, respiratory
system, gastrointestinal system,
skeletal system, and others.
There is a decline in the
functional efficiency of
 CONTINUE ……..

your organs as you age. This occurs because the natural cell division process by which your
tissues are made decreases over the years. Eventually, your cells become weaker and
perform less efficient functions than at your young age.
Cardiovascular system :
The muscle fiber of your heart starts to weaken over the age of 60. It can occur
sooner in certain individuals. Pumping your blood across the body becomes more difficult,
and some of the muscle groups even die due to lack of blood or oxygen. This is a major
reason for heart attacks and other heart-related problems. Your arteries may thicken over
time due to cholesterol deposits. This can raise your blood pressure and cause hypertension.
Obesity may result in the early occurrence of these symptoms.
CONTINUE ……

• Musculoskeletal system :
Changes in your musculoskeletal system are visibly evident as you age. Your bones lose their normal
thickness and density over time due to calcium loss. This is more frequent among females and begins to
occur around menopause. Your muscles also become weaker, mainly if you are used to a sedentary
lifestyle. Lack of physical activity can cause early loss of strength and efficiency from your bones and
muscles.
Digestive system :
Our digestive system is also affected by aging. Digestive signs and symptoms may be difficult to
distinguish because they may be occurring due to other factors such as diet, fluid intake, physical activity,
etc. Constipation is a common complaint among older adults because your large intestines become less
efficient. This may also occur due to lack of fiber in diet, dehydration, or lesser physical activity. The use
of medications can also affect the digestive and reabsorption functions of your gastrointestinal tract.
CONTINUE …..

• Hormonal fluctuation:
Hormonal fluctuations are also experienced as you age. These can manifest differently for
males and females. A general outcome of this are changes in your sexual activity. Sexual drive
decreases, especially in females, and the reproductive cycle is disrupted. The rest of your
body's hormones, such as adrenaline, thyroid hormone, etc., can also fluctuate over time.
• Other physical changes include weakening of skin cells, loss of hair, decreased vision and
hearing, weight changes, weakening of gums and teeth, loss of immunity, and increased risk
of other diseases. Much of these can be controlled by developing healthy habits and
maintaining a good standard of life.
PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT:

• Apart from physical changes, there are many psychological effects of aging that can lower
the quality of your life. Psychological effects can start to exhibit as early as you experience
the initial visible signs of aging. Men and women become more conscious about their
looks and body shape because it influences their social and professional life. This may
cause mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and increased distress.
Depression is one of the most common effects of aging. It does not necessarily occur due
to aging but rather personal and social factors. People who are over-concerned about
their physical looks may experience depression as their features decline over time. Less
social activity or abandonment from friends or family members can also contribute to this
condition.
CONTINUE ……

• On a broad scale, your mental health declines over time. This may also be
attributed to the weakening of your nervous system. The risk of conditions like
delirium, dementia, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, etc., increases.
The intelligence and memory skills of a person may also be affected. Overall,
these conditions are often multifactorial and occur due to many other factors
accompanied by aging.
THE ELDERLY AND DEATH
CONTINUE……..

• The effects of aging on the elderly can vary widely from person to person due to
factors like genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Developmental psychology examines
how these factors interact to influence physical, cognitive, and socio emotional
changes in older adults. Some common effects of aging include declines in physical
strength and mobility, changes in memory and cognitive abilities, and shifts in social
relationships and emotional well-being. However, it's important to note that aging
also brings opportunities for continued growth, wisdom, and resilience. Researchers
in gerontology aim to understand these effects to promote healthy aging and
improve quality of life for older adults.
• In gerontology, the elderly are a focal point of study, representing a stage in the lifespan
marked by unique challenges and opportunities. Gerontologists investigate various
aspects of aging, including physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and
social relationships, to better understand how individuals navigate the aging process. By
studying the elderly population, gerontologists aim to identify factors that contribute to
successful aging, promote health and well-being, and address issues such as age-related
diseases, social isolation, and caregiving needs. Ultimately, the field of gerontology seeks
to enhance the quality of life for older adults and ensure that they can age with dignity
and independence.
ELDERLY IN GERONTOLOGY:

 Physical Health: Gerontologists examine the physiological changes that occur with aging, such as
declines in muscle mass, bone density, and sensory functions. They study age-related diseases like
arthritis, osteoporosis, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders such as
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Understanding these health challenges helps develop
strategies for prevention, management, and treatment.
 Cognitive Function: Cognitive aging is a key area of study in gerontology. Researchers investigate
changes in memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function that occur as people age.
They explore both normal cognitive aging processes and pathological conditions like dementia.
Interventions such as cognitive training programs and lifestyle modifications are developed to
support cognitive health in older adults.
CONTINUE……
 Emotional Well-being: Gerontologists study emotional experiences in older adults, including factors like loneliness,
depression, anxiety, and resilience. They explore the impact of life transitions, losses, and social support on mental
health outcomes. Interventions such as psychotherapy, support groups, and mindfulness-based approaches aim to
enhance emotional well-being and quality of life.
 Social Relationships: Social connections are crucial for the well-being of older adults. Gerontologists examine the
importance of social networks, family relationships, friendships, and community engagement for maintaining
mental and physical health. They also address issues such as elder abuse, ageism, and access to social services and
resources.
 Quality of Life: Gerontology emphasizes the holistic well-being of older adults, beyond just physical health.
Researchers investigate factors that contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life in later years, including engagement
in leisure activities, sense of purpose, spiritual beliefs, and cultural influences. Interventions focus on enhancing
overall quality of life and promoting successful aging.
THE STUDY OF DEATH AND GERONTOLOGY

Infancy and Early Childhood: Babies and young children may not have a concrete
understanding of death, but they can still be affected by the loss of caregivers or pets.
Developmental psychologists study how children's understanding of death evolves as they
grow older and how they cope with grief and loss.
Middle Childhood and Adolescence: Children in this stage start to develop a more mature
understanding of death, influenced by cultural and religious beliefs, as well as personal
experiences. They may grapple with existential questions and confront the reality of
mortality. Adolescents, in particular, may engage in risky behaviors as they navigate their
mortality salience.
CONTINUE…..
 Adulthood: Adults face challenges related to aging, such as physical decline, changes in
identity, and caregiving for elderly parents. Developmental psychologists explore how adults
adapt to these changes and how they perceive their own aging process. They also study
factors that contribute to successful aging, such as maintaining social connections and
engaging in healthy behaviors.
 Late Adulthood and Aging: As individuals enter late adulthood, their attitudes toward
death and dying may shift, and they may experience increased contemplation of their own
mortality. Gerontologists within developmental psychology examine the psychological and
social aspects of aging, including issues related to end-of-life care, bereavement, and legacy.
CHALLENGES FACED BY THE ELDERLY
AND POSSIBLE SOLUTION
People aged 40 to 65 often face a range of challenges across various
aspects of life. Here are some key challenges typically encountered by
this age group:
 HEALTH CONCERNS

• Physical Health: Increasing incidence of chronic conditions like diabetes,

hypertension, arthritis, and heart disease.
• Mental Health: Risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders
due to life transitions and increased responsibilities.
• Menopause and Andropause: Hormonal changes leading to various
symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and decreased libido.
 CAREER AND EMPLOYMENT

• Job Security: Potential for ageism in the workplace, concerns about job
stability, and difficulties in finding new employment.
• Career Plateau: Limited opportunities for advancement or career change.
• Skill Relevance: Keeping up with technological advancements and
industry changes to maintain competitiveness.
 FINANCIAL PRESSURE

• Retirement Planning: Stress about insufficient savings, planning for

retirement, and managing investments.
• Debt Management: Paying off mortgages, loans, and credit card debts.
• Supporting Family: Financial support for children’s education and,
increasingly, support for aging parents.
 SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL CHANGES

• Loneliness and Isolation: Reduced social interaction as children leave

home and social circles change.
• Midlife Crisis: Re-evaluating life choices, goals, and achievements, leading
to potential existential crises.
• Identity and Self-Worth: Struggles with self-identity and self-worth as
roles and responsibilities evolve.
 LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS

• Physical Limitations: Adapting to reduced physical capabilities and energy

levels.
• Work-Life Balance: Managing the demands of work, family, and personal
life, which can lead to burnout.
• Recreation and Leisure: Finding time and opportunities for hobbies,
travel, and personal interests.
STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS THESE CHALLENGES

Health Management: Regular medical check-ups, healthy diet, exercise, and

mental health support.
Career Development: Continuous learning, skill development, networking,
and seeking mentorship.
Financial Planning: Budgeting, financial advising, and prudent investment
strategies.
CONTINUE…..

 Support Systems: Building strong social networks, seeking community resources, and
fostering supportive family relationships.
 Personal Fulfillment: Pursuing hobbies, volunteer work, and activities that provide a
sense of purpose and joy.
Addressing these challenges involves proactive planning, seeking support, and adapting to
changing circumstances to maintain a fulfilling and balanced life.