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7. Aging As Development
Human life is a process. A number of psychologists have attempted to identify the particular tasks that must be accomplished at each stage of development. Successful completion of tasks at one stage means that the individual normally proceeds to the next stage and a few set of tasks. It is not always recognized, however, that there are new tasks for the aged1 as well as for those who are younger. Aging, in other words, is a new stage in the developmental process of life.
What are the developmental tasks faced by the aged? Some tasks are similar to those of other age groups, and some are peculiar to the elderly. In the nineteenth century, for instance, most men had no transition to retirement. Typically, a man worked until disability or death. Few people had to deal with the "empty nest2" problem, since children either did not leave the family house or returned there to live with their elderly parents.
Today, when an increasing number of people are living into their seventies and eighties, there are at least five developmental tasks facing the elderly. First, the aged must come to terms with3 the physical limitations inherent in4 their stage of life. They will no longer be able to engage in certain activities as often or as successfully as they once could. Second, having come to terms with the limitations, the older person must redefine the scope of his or her activities. Third, the older person must find new sources for satisfying his or her needs. This may be particularly acute at the time of retirement for those who hold to the work ethic.
A fourth task is to reassess the criteria for self-evaluation. Again, the loss of work is involved, for many Americans consider themselves worthwhile because they have a fulltime job. The question the elderly person must face is "Am I a worthwhile person because of the kind of individual I am, because of the various qualities I possess, or am I worthwhile only as long as I can function in some kind of job?" A man who lost his job in advertising when he was sixty-one told the author that he could not find another job in his field. He has done some freelance work, but he still mourns the loss of his job. "I loved what I did, " he said, "and I resented being thrown out on the scrap heap5. There are times when I think I'm just not worth anything anymore. "
Finally, the aged face the task of finding ways to give meaning and purpose to their 021 lives. This task arises throughout the individual's life. Many elderly people find challenges, struggles, and gratifications just as they did in their earlier years.
閱讀自測
Complete the sentences with the proper forms of the words given in parentheses:
1. We are _____( gratification) to learn that you have won the scholarship.
2. Your work in office has not been very _____( product) .
3. Money will be paid half in advance and half on_____ ( complete ) .
4. All railroads have weight and height _____( limit) because of tunnels, bridges and so forth.
