Model of the timing of events & Feature model

Model of the timing of events

▪ Development depends on the timing of certain events in people's lives.

▪ Normative life events normally occur at certain times of life.

▪ Existence of a social clock → societal norms and what is considered appropriate.

▪ Cultural and generational influence on the social clock.

▪ If events in time → uniform development.

▪ If unexpected, untimely or non-occurring events > stress.

Big 5 personality traits

OCEAN:

1. Openness to Experience

How open a person is to new ideas, creativity, and experiences.

High openness

• Imaginative

• Curious

• Creative

• Enjoys trying new things

Low openness

• Prefers routine

• More traditional

• Less interested in change

Example:
Someone who enjoys art, travel, and exploring new ideas.

2. Conscientiousness

How organized, responsible, and self-disciplined a person is.

High conscientiousness

• Reliable

• Careful

• Goal-oriented

• Good self-control

Low conscientiousness

• Disorganised

• Impulsive

• Less dependable

Example:
A student who plans ahead and submits work on time.

3. Extraversion

How social, energetic, and outgoing a person is.

High extraversion

• Talkative

• Sociable

• Energetic

• Enjoys groups

Low extraversion (introversion)

• Quiet

• Reserved

• Prefers smaller groups or solitude

Example:
Someone who enjoys parties and meeting new people.

4. Agreeableness

How compassionate and cooperative a person is toward others.

High agreeableness

• Kind

• Helpful

• Trusting

• Empathetic

Low agreeableness

• Competitive

• More critical

• Less cooperative

Example:
A person who easily helps others and avoids conflict.

5. Neuroticism

How emotionally stable or unstable a person is.

High neuroticism

• More anxious

• Easily stressed

• Emotionally reactive

Low neuroticism

• Calm

• Emotionally stable

• Handles stress well

Example:
Someone who worries frequently versus someone who stays calm under pressure.

Changes during emerging adulthood

• Increases in assertiveness, conscientiousness and emotional stability.

• Lack of evidence of genetic or maturational causes → importance of life experiences:

- People with prosperous and rewarding careers → increases in emotional stability and conscientiousness.

- People who are slacking in their careers → deterioration of these traits.

Slow changes during middle adulthood and old age

• Increases in agreeableness and conscientiousness.

• Decreases in neuroticism, extraversion and openness to experience.

▪ Traits and health/well-being.

• High scrupulousness→ hygienic behaviours that contribute to a long term life.

• High neuroticism → anxiety and depression.

• Low extraversion → agoraphobia and social phobia.