Chapter 16: Problem 8

Summarize characteristics of work and career in middle adulthood.

Short Answer

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Middle adulthood, defined roughly between ages 40-60, is characterized by career stability and higher level positions resulting from accumulated experience and skills. Goals during this period often shift from job ladder ascension to maintaining status and work-life balance. Transition is another feature, with retirement planning and employment challenges. Career plateau due to mounting responsibilities is another potential characteristic.

Step by step solution

Define Middle Adulthood

Middle adulthood is typically defined as the period between the ages 40 - 60. During this time individuals are often well into their chosen careers, have established families, and may have more financial and professional responsibilities.

Highlight Career Development

In the context of career development, this is the period where most people are in the peak of their career. They've acquired significant experience and skill in their field and have probably reached a higher level position.

Discuss Stability and Goals

One major characteristic of this stage is career stability. These individuals have typically found their career path and settled. Goals during this stage often shift from ascending the corporate ladder to maintaining status and improving work-life balance.

Discuss Transition-

Another feature of this stage is a certain degree of transition. Many people start thinking about retirement planning. Others may face employment challenges like redundancy or the need to update skills.

Discuss Responsibilities and Career Plateau

People at this stage may encounter a career plateau where they feel reluctant or unable to move further upwards. This could be due to increasing familial responsibilities or stress levels. Some may find greater satisfaction and revitalized interest in their career by evolving their roles.

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Summarize characteristics of work and career in middle adulthood.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Middle Adulthood

Highlight Career Development

Discuss Stability and Goals

Discuss Transition-

Discuss Responsibilities and Career Plateau

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