When discussing middle age, we inevitably think of the so-called midlife crisis. Somewhere between the ages of 40 and 60, it is thought that people start becoming aware of their own limitations and mortality, leading them to becoming mournful for their youth and searching for a renewed sense of youthfulness in order to make true their unfulfilled life goals. Sudden changes in lifestyle that follow are quick to be labeled as a midlife crisis. But is there any truth to it?
The stereotypes
The stereotypes
The stereotypical notions of midlife crisis usually refer to men who buy expensive sports cars and look for partners half their age. Not immune to midlife crises are women who face menopause and find their homes empty of children who are becoming independent, experiencing empty nest syndrome, feelings of depression, and a sense of feeling disconnected from their partner. Studies show that life satisfaction is lowest during middle age, however, such assessments are rather broad.
The stereotypes
The above mentioned differences in life satisfaction are minuscule and the studies performed are of a comparative nature, meaning that authors of studies compared different age groups of individuals during the same time period. Such studies are often subject to generational differences and significant events during the specific study period. Despite the shortcomings, these results are often cited as evidence of a general midlife crisis that occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. It goes without saying that this piece of data is not only misleading, but also potentially dangerous.
A universal midlife crisis is just a myth
A universal midlife crisis is just a myth
Studies that track the actual lives and changes in life satisfaction the period of several years show that life satisfaction in middle age is high and stable, with an upward trend in emotional well-being. In fact, the results of such studies show that only 10–20% of people in middle age experience feelings that may be considered characteristic of a midlife crisis.
Article by: Anamarija Bogolin, M.Sc. in psychology
A universal midlife crisis is just a myth
People also experience crises at other life stages, so in the sense, middle age cannot be considered an exception. Only half of the people who report experiencing a midlife crisis report feelings of restlessness or anxiety in connection to ageing. For others, crises arise as a result of specific events, such as divorce, job loss, or health-related issues, which can occur regardless of age. Furthermore, individuals experiencing a midlife crisis also face similar turmoil during other life stages. That is why it can be concluded that a neurotic personality, and not ageing, is primarily responsible for periods of crisis.
