Essentials of Life-Span Development - Essay Example

Early/Middle Adulthood ObservationAbstractAs we grow and develop, we go through stages that have requirements for us to master in making successful completion of those stages. Through this growth process, we discover who we are and what we mean to society at large. John Santrock has outlined the lifespan development in his book, Essentials for Lifespan Development. I have attempted to explain the steps along my journey as I go through Early and Middle Adulthood. I am aware that I will not remain in this stage, but will soon move into the launching phase of Early Adulthood as I grow toward Middle Adulthood.

Early/Middle Adulthood Observation I was born in Miami, Florida, and have lived most of my life there. My parents are still together and very supportive of myself and my siblings. We have a close knit, loving family relationship and depend on each other for emotional support. I am the middle child of four siblings that include an older sister, and, a younger sister and brother. My younger brother is still in school, a junior; however my sisters and I all graduated from the same high school, Pine High School.

My older sister is in nursing school at Delgado Community College; my younger sister and I also attend college there. (Santrock, Ch. 11)My temperament is easy going; I am extroverted and friendly. I feel that one of the main reasons for this is because my family is so close and supportive. It makes it easy to face the challenges in my life knowing that people are there for me. (Santrock, Ch. 12)I try hard to stay healthy by choosing healthy meals and taking time for exercise. As well I drink water and do my best to get enough sleep.

I avoid risky behaviors as much as possible. I know that as I proceed through the life cycle, my strength and endurances will decline, therefore I want to stay strong as long as possible so I try to take care of my body and mind by choosing healthy behaviors. (Santrock, Ch. 13)I have many hobbies that are fulfilling to me. I enjoy shopping, eating and hanging out with my sisters and my friends. I also enjoy fishing, hunting, and going to the beach to get a tan. Exercising is also one of my hobbies; I like to jog and swim, as well as take long walks.

While I haven’t married or had children, yet, I still enjoy close relationships with friends. Believe it or not, my sisters and I are actually best friends; we share our feelings about everything. Our mom and dad have a close, loving relationship that has modeled healthy relationship behavior and I’m sure when the time comes, I will also make an excellent choice for a mate. My brother is much younger than I; however he provides feedback sometimes that lets me know how I rate with the opposite sex.

(Santrock, Ch. 14)I hope to finish college soon and get a good job so that I can begin my life independently from my family. As much as I love them, I also need to establish myself as an individual. I am at that point in my life where I feel like it’s time for me to branch out and see what the world is about for myself. I feel that seeing my parents fulfill their roles in the family has set a positive example for me and my siblings. We aren’t particularly religious, but our family values are healthy and reach out to those in need.

Our family has a strong sense of helping the underdog; we go out of our way to lend a hand. My current role is that of daughter, sister, friend, and student. (Santrock, Ch. 15)According to Santrock, I am classified as being in Early Adulthood. I have made the milestones from childhood and adolescence with a moderate amount of success and now have moved into the next phase of lifespan development. Some of the next milestones I will be passing include the addition of a significant other and possibly a family.

I will also pursue a career and move into my independent adult life. My learning will not be limited to classroom education, but will branch out into the life experience learning that produces wisdom for the journey. I am very much looking forward to the rest of my life. Santrock, J. (2006). Essentials of Life-Span Development. McGraw-Hill: Boston. Ch.11-15.