Self Concept in Adult Age
For some two decades the young adult has become used to himself or herself. The male knows much about his assets and weaknesses, and has learned to play various occupational roles accordingly. The female has learned to play even more roles. But gradually, following the middle-age revolt, roles begin to change, and so does self concept. To replace the roles of parent, social affiliations widen; citizenship activities expand; homemaking and hobbies are in tensified. However, the person who has played few roles is less likely to expand interests. It is particularly important for adjustment that one be able to shift emotional attachments as well as ego involvements. As one psychologist put it, "The individual must withdraw emotional capital from one role and in vest it in another one."
Revision in self concept comes gradually. Changes relate more to physical than to intellectual abilities. Because the individual feels that there is a cultural demand to "stay young," the man junges himself in terms of appearance, dress, and youthful activities. Women who find earlier roles ending, whose husbands (if successful) are emphasizing work and community activities, and whose children no longer need care often express feelings of uselessness. Boredom is sometimes added to. the "three B's" of bridge. bonbons, and bourbon. The poorly adjusted woman has the exaggerated idea that she is losing her sex appeal and that her husband may turn to other women. The unmarried career woman also undergoes change. Realizing that her career (particularly in glamour fields) is in danger from competition with younger women brings on stress. The realization that her chances of marriage are dwindling enhances the problem.
Because men continue to work, they feel the effects of role change less than women. Competition at work disturbs the man who never felt himself too successful even in youth. Some men in their forties or fifties have symptoms similar to those of the female ml'n· opause. They complain of anxiety, depression, irritability, and fatigue. They are conscious of having to cut down on their intake of food and drink, and at a time when finanCially they can best afford som luxury. Some adopt the attitude that if you ure over flt'ty you ar entitled to indulge yourself.
