The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is decrease.
Research on self-esteem across the lifespan indicates that while it often peaks in middle adulthood, it generally tends to decline in older age. This pattern is not universal for every individual, but it represents a well documented trend in psychological studies. During middle age, typically from the 40s to the 60s, many people experience high levels of self-esteem. This is often due to career stability, established relationships, and a strong sense of self. However, as individuals enter late adulthood, a variety of life changes can contribute to a gradual reduction in self worth.
Several key factors are responsible for this decline. Significant changes in physical health, including the onset of chronic illnesses or a decrease in mobility, can negatively affect an individual’s sense of independence and competence. Social roles also transform dramatically. Retirement, for instance, can lead to a loss of professional identity and daily structure. Furthermore, the loss of a spouse, friends, and peers becomes more common with age, which can lead to increased loneliness and a weakened support system. Socioeconomic shifts, such as a reduced income after retiring, can also introduce financial stress and impact one’s sense of security. These cumulative changes can challenge an older adult’s established sense of self and contribute to lower self-esteem.
It is important to note that this decline is an average tendency, not an inevitable outcome. Many older adults maintain high and stable self-esteem well into their later years. Factors such as strong social connections, engaging in hobbies, maintaining a sense of purpose, and having a positive outlook can act as protective buffers against this decline. Nevertheless, when looking at large population trends, the data consistently shows a general decrease.
