Towards a New Synthesis for Development in Adulthood

Abstract

Life span scholars are urged to continue unpacking what is meant by development in adulthood. Relational developmental systems theory provides a theoretically rich framework within which to ground our empirical work, but consideration of current models shows that additional theorizing and more empirical work are needed to better understand development in adulthood. Articulation of linkages between intraindividual variability developmental studies in conjunction with population-based studies is one suggested strategy. The six foci personality model is presented as an exemplar, compatible with intraindividual variability and population science, to move us further along in theorizing about adult development in one important domain.