PSYC 2235 - Chapter 13 Physical and Cognitive Development in Early Adulthood

Postformal Thought

Types of thinking that are associated with a hypothesized fifth stage of cognitive development

Relativism

The idea that some propositions cannot be adequately described as either true or false, depending on context, perspective or evidence making them open to interpretation

Dialectic thought

A form of thought involving recognition and acceptance of paradox and uncertainty. Sometimes there is no correct answer and you have no choice but to accept it.

Labouvie-Vief suggestion

Adults learn how to solve problems associated with their particular social roles or jobs, but must trade in the deductive thoroughness of formal operations (prioritizing efficiency and practicality over abstract logic.) 

Reflective judgement

The ability to identify the underlying assumptions of differing perspectives on controversial issues (Ex. abortion, if you can look at both sides and understand each perspective you are exercising reflective judgement) 

Pattern of Intelligence in Early Adulthood

• Fairly stable

• Some increase in adulthood

• Years of stability

• Decline around 60

Decline in Intelligence

• Evidence that the decrease might be due to a minority (Ex. developing dementia)

• How big the decrease depends on the studies use of cross-sectional (Producing a bigger drop, oldest group having lower education) or longitudinal

Crystallized Intelligence

Knowledge and judgement acquired through education and experience (Learning) 

Fluid Intelligence

The aspect of intelligence that reflects fundamental biological processes and does not depend on specific experiences (Ex. response speed, working memory capacity)

Post-Secondary Education

Any formal educational experience that follows high school. 

People with Post-Secondary Education are More Likely to:

• Be employed

• Earn more money

• Have higher-status jobs

• May develop a more internal locus of control (Who or what level of control you have - Internal = you are in control, External = you don’t have control)

In Post-Secondary Settings:

• People may change their goals as they assess their enjoyment of different domains and their academic abilities

• Young adults are exposed to new socialization opportunities, new people and new ideas