1

Adult Psychopathology

Assignment # 1

Student Name: Nimra Imran

Student ID: S2023146018

Section: A

Resource Person

Ma’am Mishal Khan

Department of Clinical Psychology

School of Professional Psychology

University of Management and Technology, Lahore

2024
 2

Challenges, Problems & Issues in Adulthood

Adulthood

Adulthood phase marks a critical period of personal and professional development. It is

commonly thought of as from late teens or early twenties to the later years of life. This period in

the lifespan is characterized by the attainment of physical and intellectual maturity, as well as the

formation of independence and personal responsibility. During adulthood, individuals experience

a phase of optimal mental functioning, wherein their intellectual, emotional, and social capacities

reaching the peek, enabling them to effectively address the challenges of career, marriage, and

parenthood (Rogers, 2019). There are three stages of adulthood.

 Early or Emerging Adulthood

 Middle Adulthood

 Late Adulthood

Emerging Adulthood

It is the life stage extending from approximately ages 18 to late 30s, during which the

foundation of an adult life is gradually constructed in love and work. Primary features include

identity explorations, instability, focus on self-development, marriage, parenthood, and a broad

sense of possibilities (Lumen Learning, 2020). The challenges people may face in this stage can

be of different nature. Some of them are following:

Psychological Challenges

- Intimacy vs isolation

- Balancing relationships
 3

- Influence of social and cultural factors on behavior, cognition, and identity

- Coping with discrimination

- Pressure to conform to societal norms and economic conditions

Social Challenges

- Divorce

- Extramarital affairs

- Marriage

- Marriage proposal

- Navigating social roles

- Fostering cultural ills

- Cultural expectations

Biological Challenges

- Difficulty forming intimate relationships

- Forming unhealthy habits

Middle Adulthood

Middle adulthood is the phase that spans between young adulthood and old age, typically

classified as occurring between the ages of 40 and 60. During this stage, individuals often

experience significant personal and professional growth, as well as various challenges and

transitions. Some primary features of middle adulthood include career advancement and stability,
 4

family responsibilities, physical changes and health concerns, psychological and emotional

development, identity and self-reflection, social relationships and support networks. Typically,

middle adulthood has been regarded as a period of reflection and change.

Biological Challenges

Declining of muscle mass

Metabolic changes

Chronic health conditions

Hormonal Changes

Psychological Challenges

Generativity vs Stagnation

Reflection on one’s life course & attainment of stable sense of identity

Social Challenges

Family dynamics

Empty nest syndrome

Midlife crisis

Balancing family responsibilities with personal goals

Decreased physical activity

Caring for aging parents

 5

Emotional Development

Retirement vs Menopause

Late Adulthood

Late adulthood spans the time when we reach our mid-sixties until death. This is the

longest developmental stage across the lifespan. The primary features of this stage include

retirement, physical decline, grandparenthood, health challenges and end of life preparation

(Group, 2019). In this phase, people get more involved in religious activities. This helps them in

gaining a belief system which can reduce fear of death. In late adulthood, individuals often

experience shifts in their relationships with adult children, siblings, spouses, or life partners.

Roles may change, with many becoming grandparents or great-grandparents, caregivers for

elderly parents or spouses (Lang et al., 2022).

Biological

Physical Decline

Weaker Immunity

Loss of mobility

Cognitive

Changes in cognition

Dementia

Regress back in life emotionally and cognitively

 6

Psychosocial

Ego integrity vs Despair

Lack of finances and dependencies

Retirement

Changes in family dynamics

Theories

Emerging adulthood: Arnett's Theory of Emerging Adulthood, Schulenberg and Settersten's Life

Course Perspective

Middle adulthood: Levinson's Theory of Adult Development, Vaillant's Theory of Adult

Development, Neugarten's Theory of Adult Development

Late adulthood: Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development, Baltes and Baltes' Lifespan

Development Theory, Carstensen's Socioemotional Selectivity Theory

Bio-psycho-social Factors

In Pakistan, individuals in various stages of adulthood encounter a range of bio-psycho-social

and emotional issues and challenges, influenced by cultural, economic, and social factors.

Young Adulthood:

- Bio: Young adults in Pakistan may face challenges related to physical health, including access

to healthcare services and issues such as malnutrition or infectious diseases.

- Psycho: Psychologically, young adults may grapple with identity formation, career decisions,

and educational aspirations amidst societal expectations and family pressures.

 7

- Social: Socially, young adults may navigate traditional gender roles, family obligations, and

societal norms, which can impact their relationships, autonomy, and social mobility.

- Emotional: Emotional challenges may include managing stress, anxiety, and depression

associated with academic pressures, employment uncertainties, and relationship dynamics.

Middle Adulthood:

- Bio: Middle-aged individuals may encounter health issues such as chronic diseases, lifestyle-

related illnesses (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), and menopause-related concerns (for women).

- Psycho: Psychologically, middle-aged adults may face midlife crises, existential questions, and

a reevaluation of life goals and priorities.

- Social: Social challenges may involve balancing career responsibilities with family obligations,

supporting aging parents, and adapting to changing societal roles and expectations.

- Emotional: Emotional challenges may include coping with work-related stress, relationship

conflicts, and feelings of stagnation or regret regarding unfulfilled aspirations.

Late Adulthood:

- Bio: Older adults in Pakistan may confront age-related health issues such as arthritis, cognitive

decline, and sensory impairments (e.g., vision or hearing loss).

- Psycho: Psychologically, late adulthood can bring existential concerns, grief from the loss of

loved ones, and reflections on life purpose and legacy.

- Social: Social challenges may include social isolation, elder abuse, financial insecurity, and

limited access to healthcare and support services.

 8

- Emotional: Emotional challenges may involve coping with loneliness, depression, and anxiety

about dependence on others, as well as finding meaning and fulfillment in later life stages.

It's important to note that individuals' experiences of adulthood in Pakistan are diverse and

multifaceted, influenced by factors such as socioeconomic status, education, urban-rural divide,

and cultural and religious beliefs. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive approaches

that consider the interplay of biological, psychological, social, and emotional factors within the

Pakistani context.

Causes

Certainly, here are some of the causes contributing to the challenges faced by individuals in

different stages of adulthood in Pakistan:

Young Adulthood:

- Economic Uncertainty: Limited job opportunities, high unemployment rates, and

underemployment can create financial instability and hinder young adults' ability to achieve

independence.

- Educational Constraints: Challenges in accessing quality education, disparities in educational

opportunities based on socioeconomic status, and gender discrimination may limit young adults'

educational attainment and future prospects.

- Cultural Expectations: Societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles, fulfill family

expectations, and adhere to cultural norms may restrict young adults' autonomy and decision-

making.
 9

- Political Instability: Political unrest, civil conflicts, and security concerns can disrupt young

adults' pursuit of education, employment, and personal development.

- Technological Changes: Rapid technological advancements and digital divide issues may

exacerbate inequalities and hinder young adults' access to information, resources, and

opportunities.

Middle Adulthood:

- Work-Life Balance: Demands of career advancement, coupled with family responsibilities and

caregiving duties, can create stress and strain on individuals in middle adulthood, leading to

burnout and dissatisfaction.

- Health Concerns: Age-related health issues, lifestyle factors (such as poor diet and lack of

exercise), and inadequate healthcare infrastructure may contribute to physical and mental health

challenges among middle-aged individuals.

- Financial Pressures: Supporting children's education, saving for retirement, and caring for

aging parents can strain middle-aged adults' financial resources and contribute to economic

stress.

- Societal Expectations: Cultural norms regarding marriage, parenthood, and career success may

create pressure on middle-aged individuals to meet societal expectations, leading to feelings of

inadequacy or failure if these milestones are not achieved.

 10

- Changing Roles: Transitioning from active parenting to an empty nest, adjusting to changing

family dynamics, and confronting midlife transitions can provoke identity crises and existential

concerns among middle-aged adults.

Late Adulthood:

- Aging Population: Pakistan's rapidly aging population presents challenges related to healthcare,

pension systems, eldercare services, and social support networks for older adults.

- Healthcare Access: Limited access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas, and

affordability issues may hinder older adults' ability to address age-related health concerns and

receive adequate medical care.

- Financial Insecurity: Lack of retirement savings, pension schemes, and social safety nets can

leave older adults financially vulnerable and dependent on family members for support.

- Social Isolation: Widowhood, migration of younger family members, and changing social

structures may contribute to social isolation and loneliness among older adults, affecting their

mental well-being and quality of life.

- Elder Abuse: Instances of elder abuse, including financial exploitation, neglect, and

mistreatment, pose significant risks to the safety and dignity of older adults in Pakistan.

Addressing these challenges requires multi-dimensional approaches, including policy

interventions, community-based support systems, healthcare initiatives, and educational

programs tailored to the needs of individuals across the lifespan in Pakistan.

 11

Levinson’s Theory

In 1978, Daniel Levinson published a book entitled, The Seasons of a Man’s Life in which he

presented a theory of development in adulthood. Levinson’s work was based on in-depth

interviews with 40 men between the ages of 35-45. According to Levinson, young adults have an

image of the future that motivates them. This image is called “the dream” and for the men

interviewed, it was a dream of how their career paths would progress and where they would be at

midlife. Dreams are very motivating. Dreams of a home bring excitement to couples as they

look, save, and fantasize about how life will be. Dreams of careers motivate students to continue

in school as they fantasize about how much their hard work will pay off. Dreams of playgrounds

on a summer day inspire would-be parents. A dream is perfect and retains that perfection as long

as it remains in the future. But as the realization of it moves closer, it may or may not measure up

to its image. If it does, all is well. But if it does not, the image must be replaced or modified. And

so, in adulthood, plans are made, efforts follow, and plans are reevaluated. This creating and

recreating characterizes Levinson’s theory.[footnote]Levinson, D. (1978). The seasons of a

man’s life. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.[/footnote] (The shift from idealistic dreams to

more realistic experiences might remind us of the cognitive development progression from

formal to postformal thought in adulthood.)

Levinson’s stages (at least up to midlife) are presented below (Levinson, 1978).[3] He suggested

that periods of transition last about five years and periods of stability last about seven years. The

ages presented below are based on life in the middle-class several decades ago. Think about how

these ages and transitions might be different today, or in other cultures, or for women compared

to men.
 12

 Early adult transition (17-22): Leaving home, leaving family; making first choices about

career and education

 Entering the adult world (22-28): Committing to an occupation, defining goals, finding

intimate relationships

 Age 30 transition (28-33): Reevaluating those choices and perhaps making modifications

or changing one’s attitude toward love and work

 Settling down (33 to 40): Reinvesting in work and family commitments; becoming

involved in the community

 Midlife transition (40-45): Reevaluating previous commitments; making dramatic

changes if necessary; giving expression to previously ignored talents or aspirations;

feeling more of a sense of urgency about life and its meaning

 Entering middle adulthood (45-50): Committing to new choices made and placing one’s

energies into these commitments (Levinson, 2011)

Nearly twenty years after his original research, Levinson interviewed 45 women ages 35-45 and

published the book, The seasons of a woman’s life.[4] He reported similar patterns with women,

although women held a “split dream”—an image of the future in both work and family life and a

concern with the timing and coordination of the two. Traditionally, by working outside the home,

men were seen as taking care of their families. However, for women, working outside the home

and taking care of their families were perceived as separate and competing for their time and

attention. Hence, one aspect of the women’s dreams was focused on one goal for several years

and then their time and attention shifted towards the other, often resulting in delays in women’s

career dreams. (Levinson et al., 1978/2007)

 13

Arnett’s Theory of Emerging Adulthood

Five features make emerging adulthood distinctive:

 identity exploration,

 instability,

 self-focus,

 feeling in-between adolescence and adulthood,

 a sense of broad possibilities for the future.

If the years 18-25 are classified as “young adulthood,” Arnett believes it is then difficult to find

an appropriate term for the thirties. Emerging adults are still in the process of obtaining an

education, are unmarried, and are childless. By age thirty, most of these individuals do see

themselves as adults, based on the belief that they have more fully formed “individualistic

qualities of character” such as self-responsibility, financial independence, and independence in

decision-making. Arnett suggests that many of the individualistic characteristics associated with

adult status correlate to, but are not dependent upon the role responsibilities with a career,

marriage, and/or parenthood.

Whether or not “emerging adulthood” is considered to be a distinct developmental stage, it can

be a useful concept in discussing developmental patterns in early adulthood in our culture today.

(Arnett, 2000)

Conclusion

Emerging adulthood has become a distinct period of the life course for young people in

industrialized societies. It is a period characterized by change and exploration for most people, as
 14

they examine the life possibilities open to them and gradually arrive at more enduring choices in

love, work, and worldviews. Not all young people experience their late teens and twenties as

years of change and exploration, even in industrialized societies. Some lack the opportunities to

use those years as a volitional period; others may be inclined by personality or circumstances to

limit their explorations or to seek a relatively early resolution to them. Nevertheless, as scholars

we can characterize emerging adulthood as a period when change and exploration are common,

even as we recognize the heterogeneity of the period and investigate this heterogeneity as one of

emerging adulthood's distinguishing characteristics. Emerging adulthood merits scholarly

attention as a distinct period of the life course in industrialized societies. It is in many respects

the age of possibilities, a period in which many different potential futures remain possible and

personal freedom and exploration are higher for most people than at any other time. It is also a

period of life that is likely to grow in importance in the coming century, as countries around the

world reach a point in their economic development where they may allow the prolonged period

of exploration and freedom from roles that constitutes emerging adulthood. (Arnett, 2000)

In the popular imagination (and academic press) there has been reference to a “mid-life crisis.”

There is an emerging view that this may have been an overstatement—certainly, the evidence on

which it is based has been seriously questioned. However, there is some support for the view that

people do undertake a sort of emotional audit, reevaluate their priorities, and emerge with a

slightly different orientation to emotional regulation and personal interaction in this time period.

Why, and the mechanisms through which this change is affected, are a matter of some debate.

We will examine the ideas of Erikson, Baltes, and Carstensen, and how they might inform a
 15

more nuanced understanding of this vital part of the lifespan. (Lumen, n.d.) (Introduction to

Emotional and Social Development in Middle Adulthood | Lifespan Development, n.d.)

Middle adulthood is the period of lifespan between young adulthood and old, typically classified

as ages 45 to 60. While most individuals maintain childhood traits, middle adulthood is a period

of significant psychological growth as personality develops with overcoming life challenges.

Unlike previous ages, middle adulthood is not confined by chronological age which allows it to

have more fluidity in terms of psychological development. In terms of personality, this period

typically sees stabilization and more intimate relationships. In accordance with Erikson’s stages

of psychosocial development, middle adulthood is characterized by striving to developing of

generativity, while those who fail experience stagnation, with potential presence of a midlife

crisis during this period. (Middle Adulthood Development (Erikson’s Theory) | Psychology

Paper Example, 2024)

Kegan's Theory of Development

Robert Kegan, a psychologist and educator, developed a theory of adult development known as

the "Constructive Developmental Theory" or "Theory of Adult Meaning-Making." Kegan's

theory focuses on the evolution of an individual's cognitive, emotional, and social capacities over

the lifespan.

Key components of Kegan's Theory of Development include:

 16

1. **Orders of Consciousness**: Kegan proposed a series of "orders of consciousness" or stages

of development that individuals progress through over time. These orders represent increasingly

complex ways of understanding oneself and the world. Kegan initially identified five orders of

consciousness:

- **Incorporative-Egocentric (Stage 1)**: Characterized by a focus on immediate needs and

desires, with little awareness of others' perspectives.

- **Impulsive-Imperial (Stage 2)**: Marked by a desire for control and dominance, with

limited capacity for self-reflection or empathy.

- **Interpersonal (Stage 3)**: In this stage, individuals begin to recognize the perspectives and

needs of others, leading to the development of interpersonal relationships and cooperation.

- **Institutional (Stage 4)**: Individuals at this stage conform to societal norms and roles,

seeking approval and validation from external authorities.

- **Interindividual (Stage 5)**: At this highest stage identified by Kegan, individuals develop

the capacity for self-authorship and autonomy. They can critically evaluate societal norms and

construct their own values and identity.

2. **Subject-Object Theory**: Central to Kegan's theory is the concept of "subject-object"

relations, which refers to how individuals relate to their own experiences and beliefs. In earlier

stages, individuals are "subject to" their beliefs and identities, meaning they are identified with

and controlled by them. As individuals progress through development, they gain the ability to
 17

"objectify" their beliefs and identities, viewing them as objects to be evaluated and changed if

necessary.

3. **Developmental Tasks**: Kegan identified specific developmental tasks or challenges that

individuals face at each stage of development. These tasks involve navigating increasingly

complex social and cognitive demands, such as forming intimate relationships, developing a

sense of identity, and questioning societal norms.

4. **Transformative Learning**: Kegan's theory emphasizes the role of transformative learning

experiences in promoting adult development. These experiences, which challenge individuals'

existing assumptions and beliefs, can lead to shifts in consciousness and the development of

higher-order capacities.

Kegan's Theory of Development has been influential in various fields, including education,

leadership development, and psychotherapy. It provides a framework for understanding the

dynamic nature of adult development and the processes by which individuals construct meaning

and identity over the lifespan.

 18

Neugarten's Theory of Adult Development

Neugarten's Theory of Adult Development, proposed by sociologist Bernice Neugarten, focuses

on the social and psychological aspects of aging and adult development. Neugarten's work

contributed significantly to the understanding of how individuals navigate the transitions and

challenges associated with aging.

Key components of Neugarten's Theory of Adult Development include:

1. **Social Clock**: Neugarten introduced the concept of the "social clock," which refers to the

culturally defined timetable for life events and milestones. These include marriage, parenthood,

career advancement, and retirement. According to Neugarten, individuals are influenced by

societal expectations regarding the timing and sequence of these life events. Deviating from the

social clock can lead to feelings of dissonance or anxiety.

2. **Life Transitions**: Neugarten emphasized the importance of life transitions in shaping

adult development. These transitions include both normative events, such as marriage and

retirement, and non-normative events, such as divorce or job loss. Neugarten argued that

successful adaptation to life transitions depends on factors such as social support, coping

resources, and individual resilience.

3. **Age Norms**: Neugarten identified age norms as social expectations and stereotypes

associated with different stages of the life course. These age norms influence how individuals

perceive themselves and others as they age. Neugarten's research revealed that age norms vary

across cultures and historical periods, reflecting changing attitudes toward aging and older

adulthood.
 19

4. **Psychological Adjustment**: Neugarten explored the psychological dimensions of aging,

including attitudes toward aging, self-concept, and life satisfaction. She found that individuals'

perceptions of aging and their ability to adapt to age-related changes significantly impact their

psychological well-being in later life.

5. **Life Satisfaction**: Neugarten's research highlighted the importance of subjective well-

being and life satisfaction in understanding adult development. She found that factors such as

social relationships, health, and financial security play crucial roles in shaping individuals'

overall life satisfaction across the lifespan.

Neugarten's Theory of Adult Development provided a framework for understanding the dynamic

interplay between social factors, psychological processes, and individual experiences of aging.

Her work emphasized the need to consider the diversity of aging experiences and the influence

of social context on adult development.

 20

Vaillant's Theory of Adult Development

George E. Vaillant, a psychiatrist and researcher, developed a comprehensive theory of adult

development known as the "Theory of Adaptive Success." This theory is based on his extensive

longitudinal study, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which followed the lives of

hundreds of men from adolescence into late adulthood. Vaillant's theory emphasizes the

importance of adaptive mechanisms and psychosocial factors in shaping adult development.

Key components of Vaillant's theory include:

1. **Adaptive Mechanisms**: Vaillant proposed that individuals develop various adaptive

mechanisms in response to life challenges and stressors. These mechanisms serve to protect

psychological well-being and promote resilience. Examples of adaptive mechanisms include

suppression, altruism, anticipation, humor, and sublimation.

2. **Defense Mechanisms**: Building on Sigmund Freud's concept of defense mechanisms,

Vaillant categorized these mechanisms into mature, neurotic, and immature defenses. Mature

defenses, such as altruism and humor, are considered adaptive and conducive to healthy adult

development. In contrast, neurotic and immature defenses, such as denial and projection, may

impede growth and lead to maladaptive outcomes.

 21

3. **Levels of Adaptation**: Vaillant proposed three levels of adaptation that individuals may

achieve over the course of their lives:

- **Healthy Adaptation**: Characterized by effective coping strategies, resilience, and a sense

of well-being. Individuals at this level are able to navigate life's challenges and maintain

satisfying relationships.

- **Neurotic Adaptation**: Involves the use of maladaptive defense mechanisms and coping

strategies that undermine psychological health. Individuals at this level may experience chronic

anxiety, depression, or interpersonal difficulties.

- **Pathological Adaptation**: Represents severe dysfunction and impairment in coping with

life's demands. Individuals at this level may exhibit symptoms of psychosis, severe personality

disorders, or self-destructive behaviors.

4. **Developmental Tasks**: Vaillant identified specific developmental tasks that individuals

must accomplish at different stages of life. These tasks include establishing intimacy and

generativity, finding meaning and purpose, and accepting the realities of aging and mortality.

5. **Ego Integrity vs. Despair**: In late adulthood, Vaillant proposed that individuals face the

existential challenge of achieving ego integrity, a sense of wholeness and acceptance of one's

life. Those who fail to achieve ego integrity may experience despair and regret as they confront

the end of life.

Vaillant's Theory of Adaptive Success offers valuable insights into the complex interplay

between psychological processes, coping mechanisms, and life outcomes across the lifespan. It

highlights the importance of adaptive functioning in promoting psychological well-being and

resilience in the face of life's challenges.

 22

Levinson's theory of adult development,

proposed by psychologist Daniel Levinson, focuses on the developmental stages and transitions

that adults experience throughout their lives. Levinson's theory is largely based on his research

involving in-depth interviews with a group of men, although he later extended his work to

include women as well.

Key components of Levinson's theory include:

1. **Seasons of a Man's Life**: Levinson proposed that adult development occurs in a series of

stages, which he called "seasons." Each season lasts approximately 25 years and is characterized

by specific tasks, challenges, and transitions. The four seasons are:

- **Early Adult Transition (17-22)**: This stage involves the transition from adolescence to

early adulthood, including the exploration of life goals and the establishment of a stable identity.

- **Entering the Adult World (22-28)**: During this stage, individuals begin to make

significant choices regarding education, career, relationships, and lifestyle.

- **Age 30 Transition (28-33)**: Around age 30, individuals may experience a period of

reassessment and reevaluation, often marked by a reexamination of personal goals and values.

- **Settling Down (33-40)**: In this stage, individuals typically focus on establishing

themselves in their chosen career, building stable relationships, and starting a family.

2. **Life Structure**: Levinson emphasized the importance of establishing a stable "life

structure" during early adulthood, which includes key components such as work, family, and

social relationships. He argued that the choices individuals make during this time shape their

overall life trajectory

 23

3. **Midlife Transition**: One of the most well-known aspects of Levinson's theory is the

concept of the "midlife crisis." According to Levinson, individuals typically experience a period

of reassessment and reflection around age 40-45, known as the midlife transition. During this

time, people may question their accomplishments, reevaluate their goals, and confront the reality

of aging.

4. **Late Adulthood**: Levinson also explored the challenges and transitions associated with

late adulthood, although his focus was primarily on early and middle adulthood.

While Levinson's theory has been influential in the field of adult development, it has also faced

criticism for its limited focus on a predominantly male sample and its lack of consideration for

cultural and individual differences. Despite these limitations, Levinson's work has contributed

valuable insights into the complex processes of adult development and identity formation.
 24

References

Arnett, J. J. (2000). Emerging adulthood: A theory of development from the late teens through

the twenties. American Psychologist, 55(5), 469–480. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-

066x.55.5.469

Group, T. H. D. T. & L. (2019). Late Adulthood. Pdx.pressbooks.pub.

https://pdx.pressbooks.pub/humandevelopment/chapter/late-adulthood/

Introduction to emotional and social development in middle adulthood | lifespan development.

(n.d.). Www.lumenlearning.com. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-

lifespandevelopment/chapter/introduction-to-emotional-and-social-development-in-

middle-adulthood/

Lang, D., Cone, N., Lally, M., Valentine-French, S., Overstreet, L., & Miller, S. A. (2022).

Psychosocial Development in Late Adulthood. Iastate.pressbooks.pub.

https://iastate.pressbooks.pub/individualfamilydevelopment/chapter/psychosocial-

development-in-late-adulthood/

Levinson, D. J. (2011). The Seasons of a Woman’s Life. Ballantine Books.

Levinson, D. J., Darrow, C. N., Ballantine Books, & Al, E. (2007). The seasons of a man’s life.

Ballantine Books, [Post. (Original work published 1978)

Lumen Learning. (2020). Theories of Adult Psychosocial Development. Pressbooks.nscc.ca.

https://pressbooks.nscc.ca/lumenlife/chapter/theories-of-adult-psychosocial-development/

Lumen. (n.d.). Emotional and social development in middle adulthood. Lumen Learning. Web.

PsychologyWriting. (2024, February 1). Middle Adulthood Development (Erikson’s Theory).

https://psychologywriting.com/middle-adulthood-development-eriksons-theory/
 25

Rogers, K. (2019). Adulthood | Britannica. In Encyclopædia Britannica.

https://www.britannica.com/science/adulthood

II. Problems Faced by Men in Adulthood

A. Career Challenges
 26

1. Cultural expectations regarding employment

2. Workplace discrimination

B. Emotional Health

1. Societal pressure to suppress emotions

2. Mental health stigma

C. Family Responsibilities

1. Traditional gender roles

2. Balancing work and family life

III. Challenges Faced by Women in Adulthood

A. Gender Inequality

1. Limited educational opportunities

2. Wage gap and unequal employment opportunities

B. Marriage and Family Pressure

1. Early marriage norms

2. Expectations of childbearing and caregiving

C. Societal Expectations

1. Restrictions on mobility and autonomy

2. Cultural norms regarding appearance and behavior

 27

IV. Cultural Examples from Pakistani Society

A. Men's Issues

1. Example: Cultural pressure on men to be the sole breadwinners

2. Example: Stigma surrounding men seeking help for mental health issues

B. Women's Issues

1. Example: Limited access to education for girls in rural areas

2. Example: Pressure on women to conform to traditional gender roles

V. Conclusion

A. Recap of the main problems and challenges faced by men and women in adulthood

B. Importance of addressing these issues for societal progress and gender equality

C. Call to action for promoting awareness and advocating for change.

Problems Faced by Men in Adulthood

Career Challenges

1. Pakistani culture often imposes rigid expectations on men regarding employment, leading

to pressure to secure stable jobs

2. Workplace discrimination based on gender can hinder men's career advancement and

opportunities for professional growth.

Emotional Health
 28

1. Societal norms dictate that men should suppress emotions, leading to psychological

distress and the perpetuation of mental health stigma.

2. Seeking help for mental health issues is often viewed as a sign of weakness, discouraging

men from accessing necessary support.

Family Responsibilities

1. Traditional gender roles in Pakistani society expect men to be primary providers, leading

to stress and challenges in balancing work and family obligations.

2. Juggling work and family life can strain men's mental and physical well-being, impacting

their overall quality of life.

Challenges Faced by Women in Adulthood

Gender Inequality

1. Limited access to education for girls in rural areas of Pakistan restricts their opportunities

for personal and professional development.

2. The wage gap and unequal employment opportunities perpetuate economic disparities

between men and women in Pakistani society.

Marriage and Family Pressure

1. Early marriage norms prevalent in Pakistan place pressure on women to prioritize marital

commitments over personal aspirations and career pursuits.

2. Expectations of childbearing and caregiving further reinforce traditional gender roles,

limiting women's autonomy and choices.

 29

Societal Expectations

1. Restrictions on women's mobility and autonomy, enforced through cultural norms and

practices, curtail their freedom and independence.

2. Societal scrutiny regarding women's appearance and behavior imposes undue pressure and

constraints on their self-expression and identity.

Cultural Examples from Pakistani Society

Men's Issues

1. Example: In Pakistani culture, men are often expected to be the sole breadwinners for their

families, placing immense pressure on them to fulfill this role.

2. Example: Stigma surrounding mental health issues discourages men from seeking

professional help, as it may be perceived as a sign of weakness.

Women's Issues

1. Example: Limited access to education for girls in rural areas of Pakistan perpetuates

gender disparities and hinders women's empowerment and advancement.

2. Example: Societal expectations regarding women's roles as caregivers and homemakers

can hinder their pursuit of personal and professional goals.

Conclusion

A. Acknowledgment of the multifaceted challenges faced by men and women in Pakistani

society during adulthood.

 30

B. Emphasize the importance of addressing these issues to promote gender equality, social

justice, and collective well-being.

C. Call to action for raising awareness, challenging societal norms, and advocating for policies

that support the empowerment and rights of both men and women.