You Will Choose What You Think Is An Important Clashing View ✓ Solved

You Will Choose What You Think Is An Important Clashing Viewpoint In A

You will choose what you think is an important clashing viewpoint in adulthood development and describe both viewpoints. You can use one of the issues to read about, or you can raise a different issue related to what you read about in the readings last week or other issues you have read about elsewhere, just make sure to cite your sources. After each issue is described, describe and justify your opinion on these viewpoints and whether you agree or not with each side. There is no correct answer here, you should just justify your response. The paper must be written in APA 7th edition format.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Adult development is a complex and multifaceted area of study that encompasses various theories, perspectives, and debates. Among these debates, conflicting viewpoints often provide a rich ground for exploring how adults grow, change, and adapt throughout their lives. This paper aims to examine one significant clashing viewpoint within adulthood development—the role of identity versus roles—by describing each perspective, analyzing their implications, and providing a justified personal stance on the matter. The discussion will be supported by scholarly sources, and the analysis will adhere to APA 7th edition formatting standards.

The Clash of Perspectives: Identity Versus Roles

In adult development, one central debate revolves around whether an individual's primary foundation is their sense of identity or the roles they assume within society. The two viewpoints offer contrasting explanations for how adults navigate their psychological growth and social relationships.

Viewpoint 1: Identity as the Core of Adult Development

Proponents of the identity-centered perspective argue that personal identity remains the driving force behind adult development. Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory emphasizes the importance of a coherent sense of identity, which is formed and reformed through various stages of life (Erikson, 1968). According to this view, adults are primarily engaged in constructing and maintaining a stable self-concept that integrates past experiences, current circumstances, and future aspirations. This perspective suggests that a strong sense of identity fosters psychological well-being, resilience, and authentic relationships (McAdams, 2001). For example, an adult who has developed a clear understanding of their personal values and life goals is better equipped to face life's challenges and adapt to change.

Viewpoint 2: Roles as the Foundation of Adult Development

Conversely, advocates of the roles perspective emphasize that social roles—such as parent, employee, partner, or community member—are fundamental to adult development. Role theory posits that individuals derive their sense of self from the roles they occupy and the expectations associated with these roles (Biddle, 1986). This viewpoint suggests that adults continually adapt by negotiating, fulfilling, or redefining their roles, which serve as the primary framework for social identity and psychological growth. For instance, becoming a parent might lead an individual to develop new skills, priorities, and self-conceptions aligned with their role as a caregiver. This perspective underscores the importance of social context and interaction in shaping adult development (Stryker & Burke, 2000).

Analysis and Personal Position

Both viewpoints offer valuable insights into adult development. The identity perspective emphasizes internal consistency and self-awareness, which are vital for mental health and life satisfaction. However, it may underappreciate the influence of social roles and contextual factors that are unavoidable and often defining in adult life. Conversely, the roles perspective highlights the importance of social integration and adaptability but may overlook the internal coherence needed for a stable self-concept.

Personally, I believe that both identity and roles are interconnected and mutually influential in adult development. While a well-developed sense of identity provides a foundation for meaningful engagement with social roles, fulfilling and renegotiating roles can also reinforce and reshape one's identity over time. For example, becoming a parent can significantly influence an individual's sense of self, prompting reflection and growth (Lave & Wenger, 1991). Thus, a dynamic interplay exists, with each aspect informing and enriching the other.

Conclusion

The debate between the primacy of identity versus roles in adult development reflects the broader complexity of human growth. Recognizing that both perspectives contribute to understanding adult development allows for a more holistic view. As adults navigate various life stages and challenges, their internal sense of self and social roles are intricately intertwined, shaping their psychological trajectories. Future research should continue to explore the reciprocal influences of identity and roles to enhance our understanding of adult growth and well-being.

References

Biddle, B. J. (1986). Recent developments in role theory. Annual Review of Sociology, 12(1), 67-92.

Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and crisis. W. W. Norton & Company.

Lave, J., & Wenger, E. (1991). Situated learning: Legitimate peripheral participation. Cambridge University Press.

McAdams, D. P. (2001). The psychology of life stories. Review of General Psychology, 5(2), 100-122.

Stryker, S., & Burke, P. J. (2000). The past, present, and future of an identity theory. Social Psychology Quarterly, 63(4), 284-297.