Human Development: Erik Erikson and Daniel Levinson

Human development describes the life stages of human beings that progress from birth to death. This essay will use theorists Erik Erikson and Daniel Levinson to compare early adulthood to middle adulthood focusing on their physical, cognitive, and social development. The essay will also define stress and discuss the best ways to cope with stress.
Young adulthood refers to adults aged 20 to 40 (Berk, 2003). Young adults are at the peak of their physical development (Papalia, Olds, & Feldman, 2004). During this time, individuals will have more concerns about their health. Their health issues may include diet, weight, exercise, and addiction (Santrock, 2002).
According to Vander Zanden (1997), Erikson says that during each life stage of development, individuals will have to encounter unique life events. These life events enable the individuals to achieve their level of growth through life (Vander Zanden, 1997). Papalia and Olds (1998) say that young adulthood is a can-do period. This is the stage where decision making is important. Exercising their freedom to be independent, and using what they have learnt in their adolescent years. This is the time of exploration, trying things out, and weighing up the pros and cons. This is also the stage where the individual chooses to be away from family, to be independent, make their own decisions, buying their own home, budgeting, finance, accommodation, and day to day living.

Also, Erikson’s Intimacy versus Isolation theory explained that young adults at this stage will think about being intimate or having a close relationship with a person (Miller, 1983). This could be a friend who they can confide in or a sexual partner (Miller, 1983). Those who engage in marriage at a you...

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...stic and within a timeframe. The individuals should consider their values and the things that have significance in their lives.

In conclusion, the growing up or the two stages in life are governed totally by a series of situations, parenting, and events that affect the outcome of how the individuals will handle the changes in life. Using human intellect and determining aspects that are normal, life will be lived and a good balanced person in society will be achieved. Because every person is different and an individual, the outcome in everyone will be different. Mature people may encounter different levels of stressful situations or circumstances than younger adults. They are more practical in coping with stress and have a greater acceptance of some things in life that cannot be altered or improved, and, can easily adapt to changes that will occur in life.