Development through the Life Span

The study investigates how cultural factors influence the stages of adult development observed among samples of adults studied in the United States. The research focuses on longitudinal research because it follows the same people across time but at different ages. A cross-sectional analysis is also necessary because it follows people of different ages and the results are tested at approximately the same point in time. Further, a cross-lagged design is vital since it follows people of different ages, then the results are observed across time. 

When individuals develop from adolescent stage to adulthood, they undergo biological changes. However, there are individual variations in experience, especially during early or late puberty. Other variations include uncertainty about self and belonging and an assertion of autonomy. Although adult development has attracted minimal research, some of the critical areas studied include the effects of unusual life events. Some of the events common during adulthood are marriage, divorce, retirement, and becoming a parent. During adult development stages, young adults, middle-aged, and older adults report the same levels of satisfaction. Individuals who have attained the adult stage suggest that the middle age is the happiest moment in life. 

Research suggests that there is a midlife crisis due to a problem associated with the definition of the stage. There is little evidence that everyone experiences the crisis and the approach taken to settle individual goals is different at midlife compared to other stages of human development. Therefore, to explore the continuity and change that people experience during adulthood, a meta-analysis may be conducted. Most often, individuals report more significant difference in individual goals and motivations than traits. During old age, people may experience biases and prejudice. Other occurrences include diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, cerebral arteriosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.