Intimacy vs isolation
The sixth of Erikson’s eight stages of development. Every adult seeks close relationships with other people in order to live a happy and healthy life.
Generativity vs stagnation
The seventh of Erikson’s eight stages of development. Adults seeks close relationships to be productive in a caring way, often as parents. Generativity also occurs through art, caregiving, and employment.
Humanism
A theory that stresses the potential of all humans, who have the same basic needs regardless of culture, gender or background.
Big five
The five basic clusters of personality traits that remain quite stable throughout adulthood: openness conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.
Living apart together (LAT)
The term for couples who are committed to each other and spend time together but maintain separate homes. LAT couples are increasingly common in the United States and Europe.
Empty nest
The time in the lives of partners when their children have left the family home. This is often a happy time for everyone.
Social convoy
Collectively, the family members, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers who move the years of life with a person.
Fictive kin
People who become accepted as part of a family in which they are not genetically or legally members.
Kin-keeper
Someone who becomes the gatherer and communications hub for their family.
Sandwich generation
The generation of middle-aged people who are supposedly “squeezed” by the needs of the younger and older members of their families.
Extrinsic rewards of work
The tangible benefits, usually in salary, insurance, pension, and status that come with employment.
Intrinsic rewards of work
The personal gratifications, such as pleasure in a job well done or friendship with coworkers, that accompany employment.
