12.11: Essay Questions
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47 .
Reflect on the concept of emerging adulthood and the developmental tasks associated with this stage, as outlined by Jeffrey Arnett. Using your own experience or examples from someone you know, describe how at least two developmental tasks (e.g., entering the workforce, starting a relationship, or leaving home) have contributed to the development of independence and the sense of self during early adulthood.
48 .
Describe the Five-Factor Model of personality (OCEAN) and explain how certain personality traits may evolve during early adulthood. Provide examples from your own life or someone you know of how at least two traits (e.g., openness, conscientiousness) have changed in response to significant life events during early adulthood.
49 .
How can Marcia’s four identity statuses (moratorium, foreclosure, diffusion, and achievement) be applied to identity development in early adulthood? Provide specific examples of how young adults may experience each of these statuses across different areas of life, such as career, relationships, or education. You should also reflect on a personal experience (or an observed one) that aligns with one of these statuses.
50 .
Discuss the concept of intersectionality and how it applies to the development of identity in early adulthood. Provide examples of how different aspects of identity (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, and religion) intersect and influence each other. How might these intersections create unique challenges or opportunities for identity exploration? You should also reflect on how intersectionality has impacted your own identity development or that of someone you know.
51 .
Explain the role of social contexts for the developing individual in early adulthood by examining the balance between autonomy and relatedness. Use examples from your own life, or the life of someone you know, to illustrate how friendships or family relationships can support or challenge this balance.
52 .
Analyze how moving out of the parental home affects the parent-child relationship. Compare and contrast the experiences of individuals from different cultural or socioeconomic backgrounds. Provide examples to support your analysis.
53 .
Developmental trajectories are shaped by the interaction between behavior and context. Using examples from your own life, discuss how your behavior (e.g., decisions regarding education, work, or personal development) and the context (e.g., family background, socioeconomic status, or geographic location) have interacted to influence your current developmental trajectory. How do these factors work together to impact your future career or educational outcomes?
54 .
Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development states that identity development is crucial before a person can achieve true intimacy in relationships. In your essay, explain how identity and intimacy are interconnected during early adulthood. Use examples from your own experience or observations of others to illustrate how the development of a strong sense of self can impact the ability to form intimate relationships.
55 .
Many young adults face important decisions regarding family formation, including cohabitation, marriage, and parenthood. In your essay, analyze how societal expectations, cultural values, and personal goals influence these decisions. Provide examples to support your discussion, including factors such as socioeconomic status, education, or personal beliefs.