Question

Explain whether the concept of middle age is a universal or culturally created. Begin by presenting a general overview of the developmental stage of middle age, and then address the notion of its universality.

Answer 1

Middle adulthood or middle age refers to the period between adulthood and old age. It is generally defined in between 40 and 60s where some psychological and physiological decline becomes evident but those in middle age continue to show adaptation in relationships. Middle age can be characterised by the process of aging i.e. decrease stamina, low blood pressure, coronary heart problems, etc. Some changes in cognition can also be observed in midlife such as impaired memory, decrease in analytical thinking, slow learning, etc but all these changes whether physical or psychological varies and differs from person to person.

In my view the notion middle age is culturally and socially constructed. Cultures treat their mid age people differently and place aging values over them. Since birth children tries to learn what is important in life through sociocultural means such as schools, work, social relations, norms, etc. If the notion of middle age to be universal then Robert Cattel would not have theorized about fluid and crystallized intelligence, a type of intelligence which is propose to increase with age and experiences as the individual acquire knowledge from institutes and various other sources. An example to make it clear that Middle age does not guarantee loss in psychological skills in general and that notable loss could be due to any physical illness or mental illness which cannot be generalised. Example given below suggest that the notion of middle age is socially constructed by cultures we live in and is not universal to all.

The minimum age for the most high position of president and prime minister of any country is above 35 years which marks the beginning of the middle age. Then how come it possible for the highest position holders in the country to carry task demanding higher mental processes and other physical work load with such great excellence.

Thus it can be said that the concept of middle age varies from person to person and culture to culture while depending on the personality and self determination of the person moving towards self actualization.