1 ADULTHOOD LOVING RELATIONSHIPS OR ISOLATION Defining adulthood According to Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, adulthood refers to two age groups, both of which have to face a , i.e. a strength used by the ego. psychological crisis that can be with a 'virtue' overcome Age Group Crisis Virtue 18-40 versus isolation intimacy love 40-65 versus stagnation generativity care Intimacy versus isolation 1 During young adulthood, people share themselves more intimately with other individuals and explore relationships leading towards with someone other than a family member. The positive outcome of this stage can be happy relationships with a eventually resulting in love. intimacy, fearing commitment and relationships can lead to isolation, and sometimes depression. long-term commitments sense of commitment, safety and care Avoiding loneliness Adults in love Adults in love . They recognise that their partners have different temperaments, vulnerabilities, and emotional histories that will cause them to give different emotional meanings to behaviours and events. Adults engage in and do not each other when they disagree. They appreciate that disagreements can enrich relationships by adding dynamism and depth. Disagreements and divergent perspectives keep relationships fascinating. Adults also balance their to be autonomous and connected. Acting on one’s deepest values makes people feel authentic and keeps them focused on what is most important. . In order to get the partner you most want to have, you have to be the partner the other person wants. respect individuality and honour differences disagreement devalue drives 2 Fidelity to one’s deepest values is the key to balancing opposing drives for autonomy and connection How to be a good parent In order to be a good parent, it is not enough to avoid dangers such as abuse, neglect or . According to the National Academy of Sciences, the four major responsibilities for parents are: . Good parents combine warmth and sensitivity with clear behavioural expectations. overindulgence maintaining children’s health and safety, promoting their emotional well-being, instilling social skills and preparing them intellectually WARM UP How would you deflne an adult? DO In your opinion, is isolation a synonym of ? 1 loneliness Do you think there is a relationship between the word and the verb ? 2 drive to drive