PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 3 Developmental Perspectives in Lifespan Psychology

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 3 Developmental Perspectives in Lifespan Psychology

Student Name

Capella University

PSYC-FPX2600 Development Across the Lifespan

Prof. Name:

Date

Section 1: Physical and Cognitive Development in Early Adulthood

(Riser, Spielman, & Biek, 2024)

How have your socioeconomic background and environment shaped your journey into adulthood? Have these factors created opportunities or challenges for you? Discuss your experiences with school, jobs, or family life.

My socioeconomic background and environment have profoundly influenced my development into adulthood. Growing up in a family with limited financial means meant that resources were often scarce, and educational opportunities were not always easy to access. Despite these challenges, this environment helped me cultivate resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities from an early age required strong time-management abilities and emotional endurance. These experiences taught me self-reliance and perseverance—traits that continue to shape my adult life.
Furthermore, my environment exposed me to diverse perspectives and community values, helping me develop empathy and social intelligence, which are critical components of cognitive maturity in early adulthood (Riser et al., 2024).

How do you plan to balance doing what you love with earning enough money in your future career? What challenges might arise when choosing between passion and financial security?

Balancing passion with financial stability is one of the most significant challenges in career development. Pursuing a career solely for financial gain may result in dissatisfaction or burnout, while following a passion that offers little financial reward can lead to stress and insecurity. My plan is to find an intersection between purpose and practicality—pursuing a field I enjoy while also ensuring it provides financial stability.
I intend to begin with a stable position in my area of interest, gradually advancing through further education and certifications to increase both competence and earning potential. This strategy allows for both emotional fulfillment and economic security. As Riser et al. (2024) suggest, achieving equilibrium between intrinsic motivation and external demands contributes to long-term satisfaction and well-being in early adulthood.

Section 2: Social and Emotional Development in Early Adulthood

(Riser et al., 2024)

Think about a major change you experienced when becoming an adult (e.g., moving out, starting college, first job). How did this change help you feel independent and shape who you are?

A defining change in my early adulthood was moving out of my family home at the age of fifteen. This transition, though daunting, was pivotal in shaping my sense of identity and autonomy. Managing finances, holding a full-time job, and maintaining academic responsibilities all at once required emotional strength and determination. It taught me accountability, independence, and self-direction. Living on my own helped me understand who I was and who I wanted to become, laying the foundation for my emotional growth and self-efficacy (Riser et al., 2024).

According to Erikson’s theory, how does knowing yourself help build strong relationships in early adulthood?

Erikson’s psychosocial stage of intimacy versus isolation highlights that individuals must first develop a clear sense of identity before forming meaningful relationships (Riser et al., 2024). Self-awareness fosters confidence, authenticity, and emotional stability—all essential for healthy interpersonal connections. In my case, understanding my values and goals after becoming independent allowed me to form relationships based on mutual respect and support rather than dependency. Knowing my strengths and limitations helped me set boundaries, communicate effectively, and attract individuals whose values aligned with mine. A strong self-concept thus serves as the foundation for genuine intimacy and emotional fulfillment.

Section 3: Physical and Cognitive Development in Middle Adulthood

(Riser et al., 2024; Gallagher, 2023)

Think about someone you know in middle adulthood. How do they take care of their health? What habits or choices do you find inspiring?

As someone currently in middle adulthood, I’ve recently taken steps to prioritize my health more intentionally. Recovering from several surgeries made me realize the importance of preventive care and self-maintenance. I have started practicing better sleep hygiene, engaging in mindful eating, and incorporating light exercise into my daily routine. These habits, although gradual, have improved my physical and mental well-being. I’ve also begun prioritizing education and lifelong learning, as cognitive stimulation is vital for maintaining brain health and preventing cognitive decline (Riser et al., 2024).

What can companies do to make employees happier and reduce turnover?

Organizations can improve employee satisfaction and retention by offering professional growth, flexibility, and recognition. Providing skill development programs, promotion opportunities, and fair compensation fosters motivation and engagement. Moreover, flexible work arrangements—such as remote work and flexible scheduling—help employees maintain work-life balance. Regular recognition from management also reinforces morale.
These approaches are effective because they address both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, ensuring that employees feel valued, challenged, and supported (Riser et al., 2024; Gallagher, 2023).

Section 4: Social and Emotional Development in Middle Adulthood

(Riser et al., 2024)

Why are more people living in multigenerational homes, and how can families manage challenges in these settings?

Multigenerational living has become more common due to economic pressures, childcare needs, and cultural traditions that emphasize family unity. In my household, four generations coexist—my spouse, myself, my daughter, and my granddaughters. While it provides emotional support and financial relief, it also presents challenges such as privacy, conflicting routines, and generational differences.
To maintain harmony, we practice open communication, respect boundaries, and distribute responsibilities fairly. These strategies foster understanding and cooperation among family members from different age groups (Riser et al., 2024).

How do cultural values shape life satisfaction during middle adulthood?

Cultural context greatly influences how people define life satisfaction. In the U.S., success is often linked to individual accomplishments such as career achievements or material wealth. In contrast, collectivist cultures—such as those in Japan or Mexico—value harmony, family cohesion, and community engagement. These cultural priorities shape what individuals strive for and how they perceive happiness (Riser et al., 2024). Understanding these differences underscores that fulfillment is multidimensional, reflecting both personal and cultural ideals.

Section 5: Physical and Cognitive Development in Late Adulthood

(Riser et al., 2024)

Reflect on a stereotype about older adults. Is it accurate? Why do such stereotypes persist, and how can they be changed?

A common stereotype is that older adults cannot learn new skills or adapt to technology. However, research and personal experience show that while older adults may learn differently, they remain highly capable of acquiring new competencies (Riser et al., 2024). These misconceptions persist due to ageism and the media’s portrayal of older adults as dependent or frail. To combat these stereotypes, society must promote intergenerational learning, highlight the achievements of older adults, and represent them positively in media and community life.

How do healthcare costs affect older adults’ decisions and lifestyles in the U.S.?

Healthcare expenses significantly influence older adults’ quality of life. Although Medicare covers many essential services, out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions and specialized treatments can be burdensome. This financial strain often leads to postponed care or skipped medications (Riser et al., 2024).
When helping older adults manage healthcare expenses, I recommend comparing supplemental insurance plans, seeking prescription discounts, and applying for pharmaceutical assistance programs. Financial literacy and proactive planning are essential to maintaining both health and financial stability.

Section 6: Social and Emotional Development in Late Adulthood

(Riser et al., 2024)

How do community views on aging affect older adults’ treatment and roles in society? Compare these views with another culture.

In many Western communities, aging is often viewed as a decline in productivity, leading to social marginalization of older adults. They may face age discrimination in employment and decision-making. Conversely, in many Asian cultures, older adults are revered for their wisdom and experience, holding advisory roles in families and communities. These cultural differences impact emotional well-being—feeling valued and included enhances health and life satisfaction, while being disregarded can contribute to loneliness and depression (Riser et al., 2024).

What will be most important to you when deciding to retire?

When I consider retirement, family will be my top priority. I want to remain available to support my children and grandchildren both emotionally and practically. Financial readiness, physical health, and meaningful leisure activities will also guide my decision. Balancing these elements will ensure that my retirement years are fulfilling, stable, and connected to my loved ones.

Section 7: Death, Dying, and Grieving

(Riser et al., 2024)

What does a “successful life” mean to you, and how does it align with Chapter 17’s themes?

A successful life, for me, means nurturing a strong, loving family and leaving a legacy of kindness and resilience. Success is not merely financial; it’s measured by the strength of relationships and the positive influence one has on others. This concept reflects Chapter 17’s emphasis on emotional fulfillment, generativity, and contributing to future generations (Riser et al., 2024).

How do cultural beliefs influence decisions about end-of-life care?

Cultural beliefs deeply affect how people approach end-of-life decisions. In collectivist cultures, family members often make healthcare decisions together, while in individualistic societies, personal autonomy and advance directives are prioritized (Riser et al., 2024). Religious views also shape attitudes toward hospice care and euthanasia. For example, many Christian and Muslim traditions discourage assisted dying, emphasizing the sanctity of life, whereas secular perspectives may focus on reducing suffering. Recognizing these cultural variations ensures that end-of-life care respects both individual and familial values.

References

Gallagher, A. (2023). Employee turnover trends: 2023 report.

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 3 Developmental Perspectives in Lifespan Psychology

Riser, D., Spielman, R., & Biek, D. (2024). Lifespan development. OpenStax.