Unit 1 Examination 39: Psychology Of Adjustment

Unit 1 Examination39ged 215 Psychology Of Adjustment

Describe the controversy in psychology about the conflict between continuity and change of personality. What are some of the traits that are likely to change? Unlikely to change? How can people best deal with the dilemma of continuity and change? Write an essay about your own development by incorporating concepts from any one perspective on development. Provide a concrete example for each of the following: age-related changes, midlife transition, ageism, and life review.

Paper For Above instruction

The ongoing debate in psychology regarding the continuity and change of personality pertains to whether personality traits remain stable throughout a person's life or evolve due to various influences. This controversy stems from contrasting theoretical perspectives: the trait perspective advocates for stability, asserting that core personality features tend to persist over time, while developmental perspectives highlight the fluidity and capacity for change driven by experiences, environment, and aging processes.

Traits such as extraversion or openness to experience are often viewed as mutable, influenced by life events, personal growth, or social contexts. Conversely, fundamental traits like neuroticism or baseline temperament are considered more stable, reflecting innate biological factors. Traits likely to change include attitudes, interests, or skill levels, which can be shaped by education, relationships, or cultural shifts. Traits less prone to change encompass core personality dimensions established early in life, which serve as a baseline for individual differences.

Dealing with the dilemma of personality stability versus change involves embracing a balanced understanding that recognizes some aspects are enduring, while others are adaptable. Personal development strategies might include focusing on self-awareness, continuous learning, and resilience-building to foster positive change without undermining inherent strengths. Psychotherapies and interventions can facilitate desirable adjustments, especially during transitional periods, promoting growth while respecting individuality.

In my own development, I observe the influence of the cognitive-behavioral perspective, which posits that learning and environmental interactions shape personality traits over time. For example, during adolescence, I experienced significant changes in social skills and confidence—traits impacted by peer interactions and personal efforts to improve communication. An age-related change I’ve encountered is the gradual increase in emotional regulation, typical as individuals mature. A midlife transition I faced was reassessing career goals and personal priorities, aligning with Erikson’s stage of generativity versus stagnation. Confronting ageism, I have encountered societal stereotypes suggesting decline with age, but through active engagement and lifelong learning, I have challenged these notions. A life review involved reflecting on past experiences, recognizing growth, and redefining my purpose, consistent with developmental theories emphasizing self-awareness and integration of life stages.

Overall, personality encompasses a dynamic interplay between stability and plasticity, where some traits serve as anchors while others can be cultivated or transformed through conscious effort and environmental influences. Understanding this duality enables individuals to navigate changes effectively, fostering resilience and a sense of continuity amid life's transitions.

References

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