This research paper aims to evaluate an individual’s physical and psychological growth and development as well as to identify the tasks which this person should accomplish in order to reach full maturity. For this purpose it is necessary to discuss theoretical views on early adulthood and point out the characteristics of this age group, namely their motives, typical activities, patterns of cooperation. First, we should make a brief overview of the persons biographical data. John Tanders is a twenty-one year old male. His parents have been divorced for fifteen years; at present John lives in his father’s house, while the younger brothers prefer to stay with their mother. John did not finish school last year and now he is temporarily unemployed. Nonetheless, he participates in the GED program in search of employment. Judging from these data, we can say that the formation of Johns identity might have been strongly affected by the rupture of family ties, especially given the fact that he was six when his parents ceased their relationships.
In order to describe early adulthood, one should pay attention to physiological and intellectual development, key drivers of behavior and other parameters. From a biological perspective, this stage is normally marked by physiological maturity, namely: full pubescence, active sexual life, and the peak of physical performance (Papalia et al, 2008). From a behavioral standpoint, a young adult is constantly driven by the desire to be independent, especially of parents. Normally, early adulthood signifies the beginning of autonomous life. Furthermore, it should be mentioned that during this phase, people try to establish contacts with various people: co-workers, fellow-students, or even occasional acquaintances. They are not attached only to one friend (Papalia et al, 2008, p 462). The role of significant other is usually played by the representative of the opposite sex. As regards cognitive skills, we can say that grown-up individuals are able to alternate abstract and reasoning (Papalia et al, 2008, p 436). They are supposed to receive and synthesize information and cope with the tasks which require strong-willed decisions, concentration, and attentiveness. Certainly, these characteristics are not universal; yet, they are considered to be most widespread.
The views expressed by Diana Papalia are partially supported by one of the most prominent psychoanalysts, Erik Ericson. He defines young adulthood as “intimacy vs. isolation” (Erikson & Erikson, 1997, p 67). In other words, a grown-up person attempts to answer the question whether he or she is going to love and be loved. The scholar also sets stress on the fact that “fidelity” or attachment only to one friend is no longer the topmost priority. In his view, this ego quality is more typical of adolescence (Erikson & Erikson, 1997). On the whole, quest of intimacy becomes the major concern for a young adult. It should borne in mind that Erikson’s theory has often been criticized because it excludes sexual minorities. But even despite this drawback, this model is quite applicable for this research because John Tanders does not belong to this group.
Hence, it is quite possible to argue that John deviates from the established patterns in many ways. First, he does not strive for any independence from his parents; he is quite content to stay with his father and be financially bound to him. He maintains close relations only with only one of his friends, and this is rather unusual because adults tend to be more sociable. Yet, the most disturbing detail is the lack of interest towards the representatives of the opposite sex. He feels extremely uncomfortable in any new environment. Provided that Eriksons model is applied, John currently tries to define his identity and his future goals. His IQ is rated as 120 which is rather average. Yet, we must consider the fact that John has Attention Deficit Disorder. Furthermore, the results of the IQ test can be explained by his personal traits, particularly, passiveness. Judging from this comparison, we can single out key developmental tasks that have already been met and those goals still should be achieved.
First, as it has been noted before, John Tanders has already reached the peak of physical performance: as he actively goes in for sports: (powerlifting, boxing, football). Secondly, John makes at least some effort to attain financial independence. Yet, much remains to be done. This person must develop a sense of self-sufficiency, ability to think and act without some else’s prompt. He also should learn to communicate in an unknown environment, where he meets people, unknown to him. Special emphasis should be placed on the interactions with the opposite sex. In fact, this can be a powerful stimulus for him to work on himself and even continue his education. Finally, it is of the crucial importance that he becomes accustomed to living separately from his parents.
Several steps should be taken in order to help John reach maturity. For example, instructors working in the GED center, as well as his parents can encourage him to participate in various group activities, demanding responsibility, attentiveness and even brainstorming. This may make him less reticent and solitary. John would have an opportunity to establish contacts with people. This should be done very gradually because he is clearly not accustomed to such things. The sense of self-efficacy can be improved by means of reinforcement. He should be given a chance to show his better qualities. In this respect, we may remember his achievements in sports. Finally, parents should explain to him that he is no longer a child or teenager and it is time to earn one’s living. Yet, this must not be done in a rude or abrupt manner because it can only aggravate his estrangement and passiveness.
Reference
Erikson, E. H. Erikson, J. M. (1997). The Life Cycle Completed. New York: W. W. Norton.
Papalia, D. Olds, S. Feldman, R. (2008). Human Development 11th edition. New York: McGraw-Hill Higher Education.