Theories and Developmental Tasks of Aging Lecture notes (completed)

What is Erikson’s Young Adulthood stage about?

It is the Stage of Intimacy vs. Isolation, focusing on forming intimate relationships (ages 21-39).

What is Erikson’s Middle Adulthood stage about?

It is the Stage of Generativity vs. Stagnation, focusing on contributing to society and guiding the next generation (ages 40-65).

What is Erikson’s Older Adulthood stage about?

It is the Stage of Ego Integrity vs. Despair, which reflects on life either finding fulfillment or regret (ages 65+).

What does Peck’s Ego Differentiation vs. Work-Role Preoccupation describe?

It describes finding identity beyond one's former career.

What does Peck’s Body Transcendence vs. Body Preoccupation focus on?

It focuses on overcoming physical discomfort by concentrating on social or mental activities.

What does Peck’s Ego Transcendence vs. Ego Preoccupation advocate?

It advocates accepting death by contributing to the future of others.

What is the definition of Chronological aging?

Chronological aging is defined by the number of years lived since birth.

What is the definition of Biological/Functional aging?

Biological/Functional aging is defined by physical changes and the efficiency of organ systems.

What is the definition of Psychological aging?

Psychological aging is defined by adaptive capacities and self-perception.

What is the definition of Social aging?

Social aging is defined by roles and expectations within a society or culture.

What do Stochastic theories suggest about aging?

Stochastic theories suggest that aging occurs as a random event and accumulates over time.

What do Non-Stochastic theories suggest about aging?

Non-Stochastic theories suggest that aging is a predetermined and timed phenomenon; it follows a 'programmed' schedule.

What is the Free Radical / Oxidative Stress Theory?

The Free Radical / Oxidative Stress Theory states that aging is the result of cumulative damage caused by free radicals produced during metabolism.

What does the Autoimmune / Immunity Theory state?

The Autoimmune / Immunity Theory states that the functions of the immune system decrease over time, increasing the risk of infection, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and mortality.

Cross-link or Collagen Theory

Aging results from the accumulation of cross-linked proteins (specifically collagen) which damages cells and tissues, slowing down bodily processes.

Wear and Tear Theory

Proposes a gradual deterioration of cells and tissues over time due to repeated use and the various stresses placed on the body.

Neuroendocrine Control or Pacemaker Theory

Proposes a decline or cessation in components of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems over the lifespan, focusing on hormones like DHEA and melatonin.

What is the Disengagement Theory?

Aging is viewed as an inevitable, mutual withdrawal or disengagement, resulting in decreased interaction between the aging person and the social system to which they belong.

What does the Activity Theory suggest?

It supports the maintenance of regular activities, roles, and social pursuits, suggesting that individuals who achieve 'optimal aging' are those who stay active.

What is the Continuity Theory?

Proposed in reaction to the Disengagement Theory, it asserts that an individual's basic personality, attitudes, and behaviors remain constant throughout the lifespan.

What does Role Theory focus on?

It focuses on the adaptation of the individual to changing roles over their lifetime, such as transitioning from employee to retiree.

What is Age Stratification Theory?

Aging is best understood by considering the experiences of individuals as members of cohorts (groups born around the same time) who share similarities with others in that same group.

What does Modernization Theory explain?

It explains social changes due to societal modernization that resulted in the 'devaluing of the elderly.'

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A psychological theory that categorizes human needs into a hierarchy: Physiological needs, Safety and Security, Love and Belonging, Self-Esteem, and Self-Actualization/ gerotranscendence.