Emotional & Social Development in Late Adulthood

Ego integrity versus despair

Erikson's theory core psychological conflict of late adulthood

Late-life adults reflect on their life and assess whether it was fulfilling and meaningful. Integrity results in feeling satisfied, whole, and complete.

positivity effect

Term for the tendency of older adults to focus on and recall positive information

Continuity theory

Theory suggests that aging adults strive to maintain a sense of self over time by continuing patterns of behavior and relationships that provide stability

Socioemotional selectivity theory

Theory suggests that aging adults experience changes in social networks as they prioritize close, emotionally fulfilling relationships

Social convoy

The dynamic process of individuals entering, staying in, or exiting one's social circle

Functions of late-life friendships

•Intimacy and companionship

•A shield against negative judgments stemming from aging stereotypes

•A link to the larger community

•Protection from the psychological consequences of loss

elder maltreatment

General mistreatment of aging adults

Elder maltreatment is most often perpetrated by

Close family members, caregivers, friends, and other individuals that older adults trust or depend on.

10%

percent of elders report experiencing maltreatment