PSYC FPX 3210 Assessment 4 Developmental Stages of Washington Family Members

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Capella University

PSYC FPX 3210 Human Lifespan Development

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Introduction to the Death of Mercury Washington

Mercury, Emma Washington’s cherished pet rodent, passed away under mysterious circumstances, causing unrest within the Washington family. Analyzing the statements provided by each family member reveals patterns in human development theories that can be directly applied to the Washingtons’ situation. By examining the development of morality and moving through various life stages, including cognitive development and the effects of aging, the Washingtons illustrate human development from birth to death. As we analyze their statements and connect them to our research, we observe that individuals in late adulthood are often overlooked in discussions of human development and cognition. While it is known that cognition and other developmental abilities may decline, it is essential to study the implications and reactive behaviors of those in late adulthood.

Moral Development

The Washington family members provided statements about their perspectives on the events leading to Mercury’s death. These statements allow us to apply theories of moral development. Emma, the second youngest daughter, demonstrates the development of moral judgments and the formation of her ethics. According to Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, Emma is progressing toward reasoning with her morality and seeking balanced moral judgment (Berk, 2018). However, when examining the development of boys and girls, differences are noted, particularly in the “ethics of care.” Carol Gilligan’s Ethics of Care theory, which focuses on feminine morality development stages, differs from Kohlberg’s earlier theories (Berk, 2018). Gilligan’s theory places Emma in the second stage, emphasizing care for others and altruism (Berk, 2018). Although Kohlberg’s theory differs from Gilligan’s, the second stages of both align closely, suggesting that Emma is in a stage where she desires a just world with social normative behavior to ensure order. This is known as the conventional level, where social order and consistent behavior are expected to produce positive outcomes (Berk, 2018).

Cognitive Development

Cognitive development does not cease in adolescence but evolves through various stages from infancy to later adulthood. William Perry’s theory highlights that as individuals enter early adulthood, their reasoning and processing of knowledge also mature (Berk, 2018). Tyler Washington’s statement indicates that he is a dualistic thinker and has not yet developed a willingness to consider others’ viewpoints. As the oldest son of the Washington family, Tyler’s rationale is very black and white. Perry found that most individuals reach a point where they can integrate contradicting views to create a balanced and informed model rather than a rigid one (Berk, 2018).

Seasons of Life

Levinson’s Seasons of Life, which aligns with Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development, focuses on the transitions required to achieve inner peace rather than on the specific stages themselves (Berk, 2018). Bob Washington, the middle-aged father of the Washington family and son of David, appears to be in the fifth stage of Levinson’s Seasons of Life. This stage is often associated with a mid-life crisis, involving an evaluation of one’s identity (Berk, 2018). Levinson’s fifth stage is characterized by balancing opposing qualities, such as youth and age, destruction and creation, masculinity and femininity, and engagement and separateness (Berk, 2018). Bob’s statement suggests that he is reflecting on his career, marriage, and family relationships. By spending less time at home and disengaging from family issues, Bob consciously avoids negative situations. This is a normal process for Bob as he considers his place within his family and seeks harmony within himself.

Adult Development and Aging

Erikson and Cohen both recognized that significant cognitive changes occur with age, often overlooked and challenging for families. According to the transcript, Bob, the oldest male in the family, is in the second and third stages of Cohen’s Phases of Maturity. Cohen’s model is distinct for its fluidity and capacity for multiple applications of these phases. In the second phase of maturity, individuals often seek liberation from the monotony of their lives and take more risks (Clarke, 2013). This can manifest in pursuing a new hobby or engaging in non-compliant actions without concern for the consequences. The third phase typically involves giving back to the younger generation and consolidating memories. David exhibits these behaviors, as he tries to help his son Bob with his children and great-grandchildren. Erikson’s stages also align with Cohen’s phases, placing David in Erikson’s aging years, characterized by the dilemma of integrity versus despair (Clarke, 2013). David is striving to act with integrity but feels desperate for connection and is concerned about his grandchildren’s upbringing.

The Fate of Mercury

Upon analyzing the Washington family’s statements, it became evident that Grandpa David was responsible for Mercury’s death, although the details were unclear. In his final statement, Grandpa David admitted that he thought Mercury was a zombie and stepped on it. With the assistance of his four-year-old great-grandson, he disposed of Mercury’s body in the trash. While vision does decline in later life, David’s instinctual “zombie” reaction, followed by the secretive disposal of Mercury, is concerning (Hirtenlehner, 2017). Deceptive behavior in late adulthood has often been overlooked by researchers, but recent studies have shown an increase in criminal activities among the elderly (Wolfe, 2016). Research indicates that just as self-control increases during one’s 50s and 60s, it begins to decline again with age (Hirtenlehner, 2017). This theory of low self-control may explain the rise in elderly crime, which tends to be less violent and more deceitful, causing less harm to others (Wolfe, 2016).

Conclusion

The Washington family provides an insightful example of the development of morality and its connection to cognitive development throughout life. From early adolescence to late adulthood, individuals face dilemmas that challenge their ethics and morality and lead them to reflect on their lives. As friends and family members age, we may notice delayed reaction times and diminished self-control. The effects of declining self-control can contribute to deceptive behaviors rather than violence or harm toward friends and family.

References

Berk, L. E. (2018). Exploring lifespan development (4th ed.). Pearson.

Clarke, J., M.A., CFLE. (2013, December 13). Four phases of aging: Beyond Erikson’s integrity versus despair: National Council on Family Relations. Retrieved January 13, 2021, from https://www.ncfr.org/ncfr-report/focus/family-focus-aging/four-phases-agingbeyond-erikson-s-integrity-versus-despair

Grainger, S. A., Henry, J. D., Naughtin, C. K., Comino, M. S., & Dux, P. E. (2018). Implicit false belief tracking is preserved in late adulthood. Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (2006), 71(9), 1980-1987. https://doi.org/10.1177/1747021817734690

Hirtenlehner, H., & Kunz, F. (2017). Can self-control theory explain offending in late adulthood? Evidence from Germany. Journal of Criminal Justice, 48, 37-47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2016.12.001