Emerging Adulthood Part 2/2; Social Changes (Intimacy vs Isolation)

Erikson’s Stage of Intimacy vs. Isolation

Erikson’s sixth psychosocial stage, where young adults face the challenge of forming deep relationships (intimacy) or risk emotional isolation due to fear of vulnerability. Success leads to meaningful bonds; failure results in loneliness.

Example:

A college graduate building a supportive romantic partnership demonstrates intimacy. Someone avoiding deep connections out of fear of rejection experiences isolation.

Marriage Rates Over Time

Marriage rates have declined in recent decades as people delay marriage to focus on careers, personal growth, and financial stability.

Example:

The average age of first marriage has increased significantly in the U.S., reflecting shifting priorities like education and career.

Divorce Rates Over Time

Divorce rates peaked in the 1980s but have declined due to factors like increased cohabitation before marriage and better access to relationship counseling.

Example:

Couples now often cohabit to test compatibility before marriage, leading to more stable unions.

Factors Contributing to Successful Marriages

1. Effective Communication: Openly addressing conflicts and discussing needs.

2. Shared Goals: Agreement on family, career, and lifestyle.

3. Emotional Support: Offering understanding and empathy.

4. Complementarity: Balancing strengths and weaknesses in the relationship.

Example:

A couple who communicates regularly about finances and supports each other emotionally during stressful times strengthens their marriage.

Factors Contributing to Divorce

1. Lack of communication: Leads to unresolved issues.

2. Financial struggles: Disputes over money create strain.

3. Infidelity: Breaches trust and damages the bond.

4. Marrying young: Immature emotional and financial readiness.

5. Unrealistic expectations: Feeling disillusioned when challenges arise.

Example:

A couple who marries quickly without discussing career goals may experience unmet expectations, leading to divorce.

Filter Theory of Mate Selection (Udry, 1971)

Explains how individuals filter potential partners through criteria:

1. Propinquity: Close physical proximity.

2. Attractiveness: Includes physical and personality traits.

3. Social Background: Similarities in religion, education, and class.

4. Consensus: Agreement on values and attitudes.

5. Complementarity: Balancing each other’s needs.

6. Readiness for Marriage: Both partners feel prepared for commitment.

Example:

A couple who met in college shares similar educational backgrounds (social background) and complements each other’s introverted and extroverted traits.

Online Dating and Partner Selection

Online dating provides access to a diverse pool of potential mates, filtered by shared values, traits, and readiness for commitment. Younger adults are more likely to use dating apps.

Example:

A professional in their 30s might use online dating to find someone with similar career goals and values, like prioritizing work-life balance.